Odisha villagers offer prayers, wish for success of javelin star Kishore Jena in Asian Games

While Odia javelin star Kishore Jena is all set to make his debut in the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou on Wednesday, back in his native village Kothasahi several women including his family members offered prayers to Goddess Bindheswari wishing him all success.

Kishore will take part in the mega event along with India’s ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra today. As another medal contender Pakistan star Arshad Nadeem has pulled out of Asian Games 2023 a day ahead of the men’s javelin final due to injury, Kishore’s chances of winning a medal has brightened.

“We worshipped Maa Bindheswari and sought her blessing for Kishore to perform his best in the Asian Games. We have prayed for Kishore before the Goddess and are sure that he will win gold medal this time,” said Kishore’s mother.

“He has worked very hard from his childhood to be a good javelin thrower. Goddess Bindheswari will bless her this time,” she added.

Another woman from Kishore’s village recited a song glorifying Goddess Bindheswari and wishing all success to Kishore in the Asian Games.

“When Maa Bindheswari is near us nothing is impossible. He will bless Kishore and fulfill our wishes,” she said.

Meanwhile, Kishore’s sister said that the athlete is determined to win a medal in the Asian Games and he has put up a lot of hard work for the mega event.

“I know Kishore from his childhood. He is pretty much focused and determined. We are sure that he will win a medal for the country. We were earlier expecting a bronze medal from him. However, after withdrawal of Nadeem, chances have been brightened that he will win a silver medal,” said Kishore’s sister.

Notably, Kishore had finished fifth in the World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest though he achieved his new personal best with a throw covering a distance of 84.77 metres. He has set his eyes in Asian Games to qualify for an Olympics berth.