When para-cyclists Shaikh Arshad and Jyoti Gaderia compete for medals at the Paris Olympics, Aditya Mehta, the founder of a Hyderabad-based foundation, will be watching with pride. Mehta’s foundation, established 11 years ago, played a pivotal role in India securing its first-ever cycling qualifications for the Paralympics. Mehta’s journey began with a tragic bike accident in 2006, which resulted in the amputation of his right leg. After struggling to adapt to his prosthetic limb, he found solace and purpose in cycling, a sport he loved as a child. His determination and innovative spirit led him to design a prosthetic leg better suited for cycling, ultimately enabling him to achieve remarkable feats. He became a Limca Book of Records holder for completing a 100km ride in five and a half hours and went on to win a silver medal at the Asian cycling championship. His foundation, which provides free accommodation and training to aspiring athletes, has also produced numerous medalists at Asian and world championships.
Mehta is not alone in using his experiences as a para-athlete to empower others with disabilities. Gaurav Khanna, head coach of India’s para-badminton team, took a personal loan of Rs 2 crore to establish India’s first dedicated para-badminton academy in Lucknow. Despite the financial burden, Khanna prioritized providing his athletes with a conducive training environment, free from the limitations of leaky roofs and creaking floors. His efforts paid off, with the national team winning four medals at the Tokyo Paralympics. Khanna aims to double that number in Paris, with around 80 athletes training for free at his academy.
While these academies offer a vital lifeline to aspiring athletes, they face significant challenges. Travel and equipment costs are high, and the lack of commercial value for para-sports often deters sponsors from making long-term commitments. Shiva Prasad, a retired para-athlete who established the Divyaang Myithri Sports Academy in 2016, highlights these obstacles. Prasad, who was struck by polio at the age of two, has represented India in wheelchair cricket and tennis, even sharing the court with tennis legend Leander Paes. He understands the financial burden, as a professional cycle or a titanium alloy wheelchair can cost several lakhs.
Despite these challenges, academies like Prasad’s provide a platform for individuals with disabilities to pursue their sporting dreams. Tharun MS, a 32-year-old wheelchair cricketer, found renewed hope and purpose after a fall left him paralyzed from the neck down. He was inspired by a photograph of a Chennai man playing wheelchair cricket and sought guidance from Prasad’s academy. Initially hesitant, Tharun was surprised to see a community of athletes like himself, participating in a cricket match. He credits the academy with helping him rediscover his passion and overcome emotional barriers.
These inspiring stories highlight the resilience and dedication of Indian para-athletes and the individuals who are creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for them. The foundations established by Mehta, Khanna, and Prasad are not only nurturing talent but also empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential, both on and off the field. Their commitment to promoting para-sports is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to chase their dreams, regardless of their physical abilities.
