Gaurii Manochaa on Father’s Support in Early Years

Powerlifter Gaurii Manochaa, who recently brought pride to the nation by winning four medals at the Iron World Championship 2026 in Bangkok, has shared a heartfelt and reflective tribute to her father, Harish Manochaa, on Father’s Day. As an athlete and entrepreneur who has overcome traditional barriers, Manochaa credits her father’s guidance and sacrifices for shaping her resilience and independence, while also offering thoughtful insights into the evolving role of fathers in modern families.

Manochaa describes her relationship with her father as a blend of affection and discipline. “My relationship with my father is a mix of sweet and sour moments. Sometimes he loves us a lot, and sometimes he scolds us when we make mistakes,” she shared. Importantly, he treated his sons and daughters equally, correcting them firmly when needed while offering the same love and support. This balanced approach instilled strong values and a clear sense of accountability from a young age.

Her father’s own journey of hardship deeply influences her perspective. Having struggled since childhood, he worked tirelessly to build a stable life for his family. “He worked very hard to reach where he is today. That is why he always tells me to start from the bottom, just like he did, so that I can understand struggles and the value of money,” Manochaa noted. This emphasis on earning success through effort rather than shortcuts has become a cornerstone of her personal and professional ethos.

One of the greatest lessons she now appreciates is her father’s decision not to hand her opportunities on a platter. “One thing I should have thanked my father for sooner is that he never gave me anything on a platter... He made me bold and independent,” she reflected. Initially, she questioned why he extended help to others more readily than to his own children. With maturity, she recognised the wisdom behind this approach. “Because he did not help me too much... I never became dependent on those things. I would not have understood the value of money, relationships, empathy, helping others, and gratitude,” she explained. This tough love fostered self-reliance that has proven invaluable in her athletic career and business ventures.

Manochaa also spoke candidly about aspects she hopes to approach differently as a parent. During her childhood, her father’s focus on supporting others sometimes left her and her sister feeling overlooked. “During our childhood, my father often ignored us while trying to make other people happy. That affected my mental health and my sister’s mental health,” she recalled. While acknowledging the importance of independence, she stressed the need for presence. “During the early years of life, children need their father just as much as they need their mother... The early years are especially important because that is when we learn how to grow.”

When asked about the most vital role a father plays today, Manochaa offered clear and practical advice. “I think the most important role of a father is to be supportive and available during the early years of a child’s life. A father should not be busy with work or business all the time,” she said. She also highlighted the importance of boundaries. “Secondly, a father should learn to say no. The word ‘no’ should be in your dictionary because if you never say no, people will take advantage of you... In the end, it is your own family that stands by you.”

Gaurii Manochaa’s reflections combine gratitude with constructive perspective, painting a nuanced portrait of fatherhood that balances discipline, sacrifice, and emotional availability. Her journey from a traditional background to international sporting success demonstrates how parental guidance — even when challenging — can empower the next generation. As a woman breaking barriers in powerlifting, her story also highlights the value of equal treatment and independence instilled by her father.

On this Father’s Day, her message serves as a timely reminder for parents navigating modern pressures. While providing materially is important, being emotionally present during formative years creates lasting impact. Manochaa’s experiences underscore that true strength in parenting lies in fostering resilience while ensuring children feel supported and valued. Her tribute not only honours her father but also contributes meaningfully to broader conversations about family dynamics, gender equality, and mental well-being in Indian households.

As she continues to inspire through her achievements on the field and in business, Gaurii Manochaa carries forward her father’s lessons of hard work and self-reliance while advocating for greater presence and balance. Her story reminds us that the greatest gifts parents give are often the values, independence, and quiet support that shape confident, grounded individuals ready to face life’s challenges.