shwini Nachappa is an acclaimed Indian Olympian and Arjuna Awardee whose career spans athletics, acting, governance, and social activism. Representing India at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Asian Games (1986, 1990), and World Athletics Championships (1987, 1991), she is celebrated for her sprint performances, including defeating P.T. Usha twice in the 200m at the 1989 Nationals and being national champion in the 100m, 200m, and 400m in 1991.
Her recognitions include the Sportswriters Award (1986), Dasara Award (1987), Rajyotsava Award (1990), the prestigious Arjuna Award (1990), and Kempegowda Award (2003), among others from state governments and national institutions. Beyond sports, she has worked at Vijaya Bank, headed PR and publicity, and served as an actor in five Telugu films, including a biopic named “Ashwini”.
A prominent sports activist, Ashwini has held leadership roles in Clean Sports India, Bangalore Urban District Athletics Association, and Karnataka Athletics Association. She has contributed to drafting sports policies and committees to improve national training centers. As founder of Ashwini’s Sports Foundation, she champions sports development, while as trustee and commentator, she engages in education and advocacy for athletes and social issues.