Asian Games Bronze Medalist Harita Bhadra Balances Sprinting With Her Own Jewelry Brand

Indian sprinter Harita Bhadra arrived at the 2026 Asian Games with a story that extends far beyond the track. The 23-year-old athlete from Mumbai is also a sports science graduate and the founder of a handmade jewelry brand.

Bhadra won the bronze medal in the women’s 200 meters in Nagoya on September 27, finishing in 23.20 seconds. The race was decided by just one hundredth of a second, with Bhadra edging Japan’s Abigeirufuka Ido for third place.

A Last-Minute Opportunity

Bhadra was not originally included in India’s athletics team for the Asian Games. She was added to the squad shortly before the competition after the Indian Olympic Association requested her inclusion, with approval coming on September 2.

She then made the most of the opportunity by reaching the podium in what was her first international competition representing India.

An Athlete With Another Career

Outside athletics, Bhadra has a degree in Sports Science, Coaching and Physical Education from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom.

She also runs a handmade jewelry brand called Daagina. After graduating, she decided to devote herself to both athletics and the small business, designing and selling jewelry online.

Following her Asian Games medal, Bhadra said she wanted to create a special piece of jewelry inspired by her experience in Japan, possibly an earring commemorating the achievement.

Support From Her Family

Bhadra has said that her family encouraged her to continue pursuing athletics even when she sometimes doubted whether the path was too difficult.

Her family travelled to Japan to watch her compete. After the race, she described seeing them in the stands as an emotional moment.

Her bronze medal also ended India’s eight-year wait for a women’s 200m medal at the Asian Games. For Bhadra, the result marked a breakthrough in a year in which she had committed herself fully to training while continuing to develop her creative work.

Sources

• The Indian Express — “Jewellery, sports science, sprint: Harita Bhadra adds Asiad medal to credentials” — September 28, 2026
• Rediff Sports — “Harita’s story: Last-minute call-up, Asian Games bronze” — September 28, 2026