Odisha’s ‘Gold Man’ Durga Charan Mishra Keeps Defying Age at 83

BHAWANIPATNA: The elderly man Dunka in age of 83 is breaking every stereotype associated with the old age. An experienced sportsperson hailing from the town of Bhawanipatna,chares Mishra is known for his various achievements in the field of sport in the area of throwing events in particular.

Mishra has been associated with the sports from his earlier days, and he is one example of a retired police officer who recently indulges in wonderful sporting activities. He has a long list of accolades which include achievements in shot-put, hammer throwing, and discus, besides representing Odisha in the volleyball and football.

His presence on the field draws a lot of attention from the young sportspeople of today.

From Police Service to Veteran Athletics

Mishra went to school in BM High School Bhawanipatna before he started his career in the police department in 1968 as a sub-inspector in Cuttack. He went on to become an additional superintendent of police.

Even after he retired, sports was part of his life.

He has excelled in several veteran athletics events across the nation, including 20 gold medals in shot put, 5 silver medals in hammer throw, and 3 bronze medals in discus throw.
In the 7th National Master Games, held in Rourkela from March 6-9, 2025, he won three golds in all the throwing events.

International Success Adds to His Legacy

Mishra has also participated internationally and has represented India in international masters athletics competitions.

He won a bronze medal at the 16th Asian Master Athletics Championships that took place in Kuala Lumpur. His performances at various international competitions have further enhanced his fame among sports lovers.

With every competition that takes place, his medal collection expands and continues to show the competitive spirit, which age has not diminished.

Because of his excellent record, sports lovers in Kalahandi have nicknamed him “Gold Man.”

A Multi-Sport Athlete

The achievements of Mishra in sports are not only confined to athletics.

He was a volleyball player at the state level and represented the state of Odisha in the years 1971 and 1972 and in the year 1972, he was also the captain of Odisha's volleyball team.His role as captain of the Odisha Police volleyball team took place between 1968 to 1972.

Prior to this, he had already stepped into sports as early as 1961. He played for Odisha's school football team at the All India School Football Tournament.

For his contribution in the sporting arena as well as his achievements he received a title of "Kalahandi Bara Putra" at the Cconference of Kalahandi Utchav Ghumura.

Still Training and Mentoring Young Athletes

Regardless of his advanced age, Mishra still participates in sports.

He adheres to his practice routine and lends a hand to young volleyball players and athletes in throwing sports. He shares with the youth his experience and counsels them in the development of their talent in sport.

As stated by Mishra, leaving his profession did not mean losing touch with sports. 

He expresses his wish to be involved in sports as long as it is physically possible and to create World’s Master records in throwing.

Discipline Is at the Centre of His Fitness Routine

Mishra's daily regime is well-organised and aimed at keeping him fit.

In the morning, he gets up quite early, completes his morning routine and then does his pranayama along with other warm-up activities. Mishra then goes out for a walk.

His breakfast consists of different types of fruits and juice, and dry fruits.
After taking a bath, he spends some time praying.

He has almost the same routine and dinner and gets to sleep on time.

For Mishra, getting adequate rest is very important to remain fit and healthy.

Concern Over Youngsters Choosing Sports

Even though Mishra is very much willing to assist youth in sports, he feels that only a small number of youth including throwing players are opting for sports as a profession.

He has been guiding some of the youngsters of Kalahandi through the years. He is proud that four of those whom he has mentored have represented Odisha in volleyball and many others have also done well, both at the district level and otherwise.

Mishra thinks that smaller towns and rural areas face different kinds of issues concerning sports without any help in respect of infrastructure, coaching and guidance from professionals.

According to Mishra, several talented youth remain unknown because they do not have access to facilities.

Better Support Can Help Discover Hidden Talent

Mishra is of the opinion that there is no dearth of skills in athletes from India. However, the bigger issue is the need to recognize and foster these skills.

In his view, the Sports Department has to play a very significant part in discovering young athletes and giving them appropriate coaching and training facilities.

Finding a sponsor from the corporate world, as well as support from the government, is very essential for the skilled athletes to represent the country in competitions.

His Advice to Police Personnel on Fitness

Mishra considers some fitness issues confronting police personnel in their job, after years working in service, as a result of the bad lifestyle and eating habits of the personnel.

He is of the opinion that some time should be dedicated to pranayama and exercise in the morning and that food intake should be limited if possible.

He states that such habits can be really effective in achieving good fitness.

Mishra’s Message: Make Sports a Part of Life

Mishra has been an advocate for promoting involvement of youngsters into sports.

He argues that sports can lead certain extraordinary athletes to a career in sports, though other players may not utilize it for professional purposes, gaining other benefits from it like discipline and pyschical skills that sports provide.

He thinks that sports can teach that goes beyond competing.

At the age of 83, Mishra keeps on working hard on training sessions, participarting in competitions and coaching young athletes.