Hoshiarpur’s Meena Sharma Raises World Junior Finalist Tanvi

By Harshit - Oct 24, 2025 02:56 PM
Last updated on Oct 24, 2025 02:56 PM

Meena Sharma, a single mother from Hoshiarpur, Punjab, turned her lifelong love for sports into a mission to raise world-class shuttlers. Having played cricket, volleyball, and badminton during her college years, Meena always knew the value of discipline, focus, and dedication in sports. While she could not pursue a professional sporting career herself, she was determined that her daughters would have the opportunity to excel in an individual sport. Her vision and unwavering commitment became the driving force behind Tanvi Sharma’s rise to a silver medal at the World Junior Championships in Guwahati.

Despite limited resources, Meena meticulously managed her daughters’ training, academic schedules, and overall well-being. She became not only a coach but also a strategist, motivator, and mentor. Early morning practice sessions, backyard courts, and home drills became routine, and Tanvi honed her reflexes, wrist control, and tactical skills. Meena’s guidance instilled discipline, resilience, and a competitive mindset that set Tanvi apart from her peers.

Tanvi’s journey from backyard practice to international podiums was shaped by constant support, structured routines, and innovation. From sparring with her elder sister Radhika to analyzing the gameplay of top shuttlers like Saina Nehwal and P.V. Sindhu, she learned to combine technical skill with strategic awareness. Meena’s mentorship ensured that Tanvi not only mastered the physical aspects of badminton but also developed mental toughness and the ability to perform under pressure.

The Backyard to Podium Journey

Initially, Meena focused on Radhika, who trained at the Gopichand Academy. She carefully studied the techniques, routines, and strategies of India’s top shuttlers and adapted them to her daughters’ training schedules. When Tanvi’s talent became evident, Meena shifted her attention to coaching her directly, providing guidance in advanced shots, jump smashes, deceptive strokes, and court positioning.

Meena also acted as a sparring partner and tactical advisor. She used her volleyball experience to enhance agility, explosive strength, and jump techniques. Every session simulated match conditions, teaching Tanvi to anticipate opponents’ moves, adapt quickly, and maintain focus under pressure. This personalized, hands-on approach helped Tanvi develop a distinct competitive edge.

Balancing Education and Sport

Alongside rigorous training, Meena ensured that Tanvi and Radhika stayed on track academically. Attending an ICSE school, the sisters balanced study and practice effectively. Meena encouraged them to learn from match footage of top players, analyze techniques, and apply strategies during training. This balance between education and sport helped Tanvi develop intelligence, focus, and tactical decision-making skills critical for high-level competition.

Meena emphasized discipline, practice, and humility. Victories were celebrated, but every win was a stepping stone, and losses were treated as learning opportunities. This philosophy instilled resilience and mental toughness, qualities that became central to Tanvi’s international success.

Family Support and Motivation

The Sharma family played a crucial role in Tanvi’s development. Meena’s guidance extended beyond coaching; she motivated the girls emotionally and mentally, helping them cope with setbacks and maintain focus. Radhika recalls that their mother’s unwavering spirit was a constant source of encouragement, ensuring the daughters never lost confidence.

Tanvi credits her success to the combined efforts of her mother and sister. The emotional support, coupled with structured training and disciplined routines, created an environment where she could thrive. Family involvement reinforced the values of persistence, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

Training Philosophy and Early Inspirations

Meena’s coaching was informed by her own sports background and careful study of top shuttlers. She focused on developing technique, agility, stamina, and mental conditioning. From grip adjustments to jump smashes, deceptive strokes, and court coverage, every detail was addressed. Nutrition, recovery, and fitness were integrated into daily routines, ensuring Tanvi was physically and mentally prepared for competition.

Early training included home-based shadow drills, sparring with Radhika, and visualizing full-court scenarios. Meena emphasized learning from every situation, fostering adaptability, creativity, and decision-making. These methods ensured Tanvi developed the skills and confidence to compete against international opponents from a young age.

Achievements and Global Recognition

Tanvi Sharma’s dedication, guided by her mother’s mentorship, culminated in a silver medal at the World Junior Championships. This achievement highlighted the effectiveness of Meena’s coaching philosophy and the importance of family support in nurturing talent. Tanvi’s success serves as inspiration for young athletes, especially from small towns, showing that consistent guidance and hard work can overcome limited resources.

Her journey underscores the importance of discipline, structured practice, and emotional support in sports development. Meena’s efforts demonstrate how early exposure, mentorship, and determination can transform raw talent into international achievement.

Legacy and Impact

Meena Sharma is often called the “Mahaveer Phogat of badminton” for her unwavering dedication to her daughters’ dreams. Tanvi’s success reflects Meena’s sacrifices, planning, and strategic coaching. The family’s story illustrates that with guidance, perseverance, and focus, young athletes can reach world-class levels even from modest beginnings.

The Sharma family continues to inspire aspiring athletes and parents alike. Their story highlights the impact of early mentorship, structured training, and emotional support in achieving sporting excellence. Meena Sharma’s vision and dedication have not only shaped Tanvi’s career but also created a blueprint for nurturing young talent in India.

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