Odisha’s rising swimming star Pratyasa Ray returned to Bhubaneswar on Monday to a warm reception after delivering an outstanding performance at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) held in Rajasthan. The 23-year-old Utkal University swimmer emerged as one of the most successful athletes of the meet, winning three gold medals, one silver and one bronze, reinforcing her reputation as one of the country’s brightest swimming talents.
With her latest performance, Pratyasa’s overall count at KIUG has now reached an impressive 18 medals across four editions — including nine gold, seven silver, and two bronze — a level of consistency rarely seen in university-level competition.
Speaking on her arrival, Pratyasa said the tournament has boosted her confidence for bigger goals ahead.
“My dream is to participate in the Asian Games. Before that, I want to compete in the World University Games and improve my timing. I love swimming — I just want to swim and achieve milestones for myself,” she said.
Pratyasa’s journey is remarkable — swimming began as water therapy when she faced serious health complications as a child. Over the years, that therapy turned into passion, discipline, and a medal-rich career. At the Senior National Championships last September, she won gold in relay and silver in 100m backstroke, establishing herself among the country’s best.
She will now resume training at the Kalinga Stadium aquatic centre as she chases qualification for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.
With her consistent performances and determined attitude, hopes are high that the Odisha swimmer will soon make waves on the Asian stage.
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