KIYG 2023: Adriyan Karmakar, Son of Joydeep Karmakar, Navigates Expectations, Secures Title, and Rekindles Passion for Shooting

Chennai, Jan 26: Adriyan Karmakar's affection for shooting extends beyond the sport itself; he's equally passionate about discussing its nuances. "I can talk about it endlessly," he remarks.

At the 6th Khelo India Youth Games in Chennai, Adriyan, representing West Bengal, successfully retained his gold medal in the 50m 3 positions event. At the age of 18, Adriyan has already dedicated two-thirds of his life to perfecting his shooting skills.

However, there was a period when shooting felt more like an obligation due to his lineage - the son of Joydeep Karmakar, a distinguished rifle shooter who clinched gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, silver at the 2010 World Cup, and placed fourth at the 2012 Olympics.

A candid conversation with his father prompted Adriyan to rediscover his passion for the sport. Transitioning from the 10m to the 50m event marked a pivotal moment in his journey, propelling him forward with unwavering determination.

"In the past, I drifted away from the sport," Adriyan reflects. "It felt like a chore; I'd go to the range because my dad said so. But he always gave me the freedom to choose. I dabbled in other hobbies like arts and crafts, but shooting remained my primary focus."

Joydeep recounts Adriyan's early initiation into shooting at the age of 8, though initially lacking in seriousness. However, Adriyan's commitment soared in 2021 when he embraced the 50m events, despite the absence of a local range. His victory in a state-level competition without firing a single shot in the 50m range underscores his perseverance and focus.

Acknowledging the challenges of being his father's son in the same field, Adriyan has learned to navigate expectations, drawing strength from his father's guidance. Despite the pressure, Adriyan views it as an opportunity for growth, fueled by his hunger for success and excellence.

Joydeep commends his son's technical proficiency and mental resilience, emphasizing the importance of experience in shaping Adriyan's future. Despite comparisons to his own achievements, Joydeep believes Adriyan has the potential to achieve greatness in the years to come, guided by a mindset rooted in resilience and determination.

Heaping praise on his son's prowess Joydeep mentions he has a long road ahead. "Adriyan knows the sport very well. Technically, perhaps he's one of the strongest shooters I've ever experienced as a Coach. Now experience and mental setup will take him higher if he wants it seriously!

"He has a very high knowledge on the technical process of shooting. His strong mental grit is another good point. Though he is young, he has his mind clear about the future, and knows the ups & downs of the game.

"Comparison to an Olympian father is a challenge, but we have spoken & planned to handle this very openly and practically. His mindset is very open even to prepare to fail, but learning how to rise again. "I'm absolutely not being biased as a father, but I see him reach a very high standard in a couple of years," Joydeep added further.