Shiva Keshavan, born on August 25, 1981, in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, is a trailblazer in Indian winter sports. At just 16 years old, he became the youngest ever luge Olympian, representing India at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career that saw him participate in six consecutive Winter Games, a record for any Indian athlete in the Winter Olympics.
First Indian Luger at the Winter Olympics: Keshavan’s debut in 1998 was a historic moment, as he introduced the sport of luge to the Indian Olympic contingent.
Asian Speed Record: He set an Asian speed record of 134.3 km/h, showcasing his prowess on the international stage.Asian Luge Cup Success: Keshavan secured multiple medals at the Asian Luge Cup, including gold in 2011 and 2012, silver in 2009, and bronze in 2005 and 2008. Despite limited infrastructure for winter sports in India, Keshavan’s determination led him to train abroad, often facing financial constraints. His commitment to representing India remained unwavering, even when offered opportunities to compete for other countries.
Promotion of Winter Sports: Post-retirement, Keshavan has been instrumental in promoting winter sports in India, conducting training camps and advocating for better facilities.
Leadership Roles: He serves as the President of the Olympians Association of India and has been appointed as the chief coach and High-Performance Director of the national luge team by the Luge Federation of India.
Shiva Keshavan’s journey from a young athlete in the Himalayas to a six-time Olympian is a testament to his resilience and passion. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes in India to pursue excellence in winter sports.
