Lost a Leg in Naxal Attack, But Not His Spirit: Kishan Kumar Hapka Shines in Bastar Olympics

Raipur, Dec 2025 – Kishan Kumar Hapka, 27, from the small village of Chhote Tumdar in Bhairamgarh, Bijapur district, has proven that a true athlete is defined not by circumstances, but by courage. Once a brave member of the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Kishan lost one of his legs on July 18, 2024, after being caught in an IED explosion planted by Naxalites. The incident was so severe that it would have made anyone give up, but Kishan’s determination paved a new path for him. He decided to showcase his talent in archery at the Bastar Olympics.

Though his body was injured, his passion for sports and dedication to serving the nation remained strong. That same passion brought him back to the field. Fighting with courage, Kishan not only regained control over his life but also created history by being selected in the district-level games of the Bastar Olympics and advancing to the divisional-level competition. At this level, he secured first place in archery, demonstrating his exceptional talent.

There was a time after the accident when Kishan had lost hope, but the athlete within him refused to surrender. His love for the game and inner fire helped him rise again. Kishan credits his coach, Durgesh Pratap Singh, as his mentor and source of inspiration. He says, “Coach Durgesh not only taught me the sport but also instilled the belief that disability belongs to the body, not the mind.”

Rising from a remote village like Chhote Tumdar in Bhairamgarh block, Kishan has now become an inspiration for all of Bastar. His struggle sends a message to thousands of youth: no matter how great the obstacles, courage must always be greater. Kishan’s achievement is a proud moment not only for his family but for the entire Bijapur district.