Born and raised in the lap of nature, Shagun Chaudhary’s life has always been intertwined with the rhythms of the land. Her roots trace back to a farmer family in Jaipur, Rajasthan, where the traditions of tilling the soil and sowing seeds run deep in her blood. To Shagun, farming isn’t just a profession; it’s an intimate part of her identity. “Farming has been a part of our family for generations,” she shares, “it’s as natural to me as breathing.”
While many know Shagun Chaudhary for her historic achievements in trap shooting, she’s now drawing attention for a different passion: organic farming. She began her journey into sustainable agriculture by cultivating garlic, tomatoes, and okra in her Jaipur farmhouse. With the assistance of her dedicated women’s team, she also undertook the ambitious project of planting 800 tangerine trees, the fruits of which have now found their way into commercial markets.
Her foray into organic farming isn’t her only claim to fame. A resident of Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, Shagun made headlines by becoming the first female shooter from India to qualify for the Olympics in trap shooting. This remarkable achievement showcased her multifaceted talents, proving that she was just as comfortable handling a plough as she was a gun.
Speaking of her shooting journey, Shagun reminisces about the role her family played in shaping her choices. “My mother had dreams of me donning a white coat and stethoscope,” she says with a chuckle. “But my father, recognizing my passion for shooting, handed me a gun instead. He believed in letting me pursue what truly interested me.”
Shagun’s journey from the fields of Jaipur to the global Olympic stage and back to farming is more than just a personal success story. It’s a testament to the indomitable spirit of women, an inspiration for countless others. “Women must be robust and self-reliant,” Shagun opines. Drawing from her experiences, she firmly believes that every woman, be it a sister or a daughter, should be granted the freedom to chase her dreams without facing societal bias or discrimination.
Shagun’s observant eyes notice the winds of change that are slowly sweeping through Indian society. “I see change brewing, especially in rural areas and small towns. Women are stepping out, asserting themselves and playing pivotal roles in reshaping our society,” she reflects. However, she also notes that this progress is gradual. “Change is happening, but it’s moving at a snail’s pace. We need to accelerate this transformation.”
Through her dual pursuits of shooting and farming, Shagun Chaudhary has emerged as a beacon of empowerment and determination. She’s not only breaking barriers in sports but is also sowing the seeds of change by educating and empowering rural women about the benefits of organic farming. With leaders like Shagun leading the way, the future for women in India looks promising and green.