From hardships to glory: Raised by single mother, Arjun’s inspiring journey to Asian Games medal

By Saurabh Duggal

Arjun Singh's remarkable journey from adversity to triumph stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of his single mother, Yogita Bala, and her unwavering dedication to raising her sons, Arjun and Vishal, enabling them to excel in the sport of canoeing and lead fulfilling lives.

Vishal, the elder one and a national medalist, recently secured a job in the Uttar Pradesh police through the sports quota. And on Tuesday, Arjun made history at the Hangzhou Asian Games by clinching bronze in the men's canoe double 1000m sprint event. This achievement marked the end of a 29-year medal drought for the sport at continental games, with Arjun partnered alongside Sunil Singh for a podium finish.

"It’s a great achievement, and I want to attribute this medal to my mother, who has gone through social and financial hardships to raise us single-handedly. I am also thankful to our national coach, Captain Pijush Baroim, who serves as the chief coach at the Madhya Pradesh Water Sports Academy in Bhopal. The academy provided me with essential resources to excel in the sport," said 16-year-old Asian Games medalist Arjun.

Yogita's journey as a single mother began when her husband abandoned the family when Arjun was just 7 years old and Vishal, 11. This unfortunate event forced them to leave their home in Dhikoli village, Baghpat. Determined to secure a better future for her children, Yogita relocated to Roorkee and took up work as a helper.

“My cousin brother, Ajit Singh, who is in the army and also an international kayaker, suggested to me that I should get both Arjun and Vishal to Roorkee, so that he could introduce them to water sports and it will help them in securing government jobs and better lives. Thankfully, I listened to his advice and today, Arjun has made the country proud at the international arena,” said the proud single mother Yogita, who works as a helper in Pearl Electronics.

Both Vishal and Arjun started their journey at the Shivalik Water Sports Club in Roorkee under Coach Piyush Sharma.