East Champaran: A 16-year-old school girl from East Champaran has become the first girl from Bihar to qualify for an international fencing championship, marking a milestone for the state’s growing sporting ambitions. Keshar Raj has been selected to represent India at the Cadet Asian Fencing Championship 2026, scheduled to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from February 18 to 27.
Currently studying in Class 10, Keshar secured her place in the 24-member Indian squad in the cadet (Under-17) category after an impressive performance in the foil event at the National Fencing Championship 2025–26. Her selection places her among Asia’s most promising young fencers and signals a breakthrough for a sport that has traditionally lacked visibility and infrastructure in the state.
Keshar’s journey began at the age of seven, at a time when professional coaching and proper training facilities were virtually absent in her district. She trained in open fields and temporary spaces before local coaches intervened to arrange an indoor hall on rent. Appu Kumar, secretary and coach of the state fencing association, said her progress was built on “consistent discipline and resilience despite limited resources”. In 2021, she won her first national bronze medal in the Under-12 category, setting the stage for further national success, including one gold, one silver and three bronze medals. She also represented India at the Asian Cadet Cup in Uttarakhand in 2025.
Her rise has coincided with wider efforts to improve sports infrastructure in Bihar. Initiatives under the Chief Minister’s Sports Development Scheme and the expansion of Khelo India centres have provided structured training opportunities. Two such centres are currently operating in her district, supporting around 30 athletes across different disciplines.
For Keshar’s mother, Kumari Rani, a school teacher, the achievement is deeply personal. She recalls years of balancing limited finances and long travel for competitions, while encouraging her daughter to pursue an unconventional sport. Keshar has twice received Rs 25,000 under the Bihar State Sports Award and has been honoured twice with the Bihar Sports Recognition Award.
As she undergoes advanced training in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, before departing for Indonesia, Keshar carries not only her own ambitions but also the aspirations of a state eager to see its athletes succeed on the global stage. Her journey from rural practice grounds to international competition offers a compelling example of how targeted support and individual determination can converge to create history.
