Shooter Swapnil Kusale, a bronze medallist at the Paris Olympics, was honoured at VJ Yashwin Society on Sus Road. In the photo (from left): Swapnil’s sister-in-law, brother, Swapnil Kusale, Vilas Javdekar, and Raghuvendra Deshpande.

Pune, Aug 21 : Swapnil Kusale, the shooter decorated with a bronze medal at the recently held Paris Olympics, was honoured at his residential society -VJ Yashwin for his exemplary achievement. The felicitation ceremony took place at VJ Yashwin Society on Sus Road, Pune, where Raghuvendra Deshpande, President of Yashwin Society, Vilas Javdekar and other distinguished guests including Swapnil's family members were present. Swapnil was honoured with a statuette of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a Puneri Pagadi, and the auspicious ritual of offering a shawl and a coconut.

Expressing his joy about the honour, Swapnil said, “Members of this society are as dear to me as my own family. After my home in Kolhapur, this society is my second home; hence, the recognition holds a special place in my heart."

Speaking about his training, Swapnil said,“I have been training with Maharashtra's Sports Academy since 2008. When in Pune, I practice shooting at Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Sports Complex at Balewadi"

Adding further he said, “To achieve success in any sport, one must stay away from social media and negativity of any kind. Mental health is crucial and now I aim to win the gold medal at the next Olympics."

Recalling his first visit to Pune after winning the medal, Swapnil mentioned that his neighbours had beautifully decorated his home to welcome him. He said he now looked forward to returning to Kolhapur, where he planned on taking a two-month break from shooting before starting preparations for the next Olympics.

Thousands of citizens gathered to congratulate and celebrate Swapnil. Swapnil's performance at the Olympics has inspired many young people across the country.

Raghuvendra Deshpande expressed pride in having Swapnil as a resident and noted that the children in the society were now dreaming of winning medals in cycling and swimming, inspired by Swapnil’s achievements.

Vilas Javdekar congratulated Swapnil and expressed the hope that he would bring home a gold medal in the future while advising him not to feel burdened by this expectation.