India is set to make its mark at the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris, aiming for its best performance yet. The country boasts a rich history of Paralympic success, having secured a total of 31 medals, including 9 gold medals, 12 silver medals, and 10 bronze medals. Let’s delve into the inspiring journeys of the Indian athletes who have etched their names in Paralympic history by winning gold:
Murlikant Petkar:
A pioneer in Indian Paralympic history, Murlikant Petkar etched his name in the record books by winning gold in the men’s 50m freestyle 3 event at the 1972 Heidelberg Games. His remarkable achievement of 37.33 seconds, setting a world record at the time, made him India’s first ever Paralympic medalist and gold medalist.Devendra Jhajharia:
A force to be reckoned with in the javelin throw, Devendra Jhajharia became India’s second Paralympic gold medalist at the 2004 Athens Games, triumphing in the men’s javelin throw F44/46 event. Jhajharia, like Petkar, broke the world record with an impressive throw of 62.15m. He further solidified his dominance at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, breaking his own world record with a throw of 63.97m in the men’s javelin throw F46 event, securing his second gold medal.Mariyappan Thangavelu:
A shining star in the high jump, Mariyappan Thangavelu soared to victory at the Rio 2016 Games, clinching the gold medal in the men’s high jump F42 event. He cleared a height of 1.89m, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and determination.Avani Lekhara:
A trailblazer for women in Indian Paralympics, Avani Lekhara made history at the Tokyo 2020 edition by becoming India’s first female Paralympic gold medalist. She triumphed in the women’s 10m air rifle SH1 final, setting a new Paralympic record of 249.6. Lekhara also bagged a bronze medal in the women’s 50m rifle 3 position SH1 event at the same Games.Sumit Antil:
A force of nature in the javelin throw, Sumit Antil made a remarkable impact at the 2020 Tokyo Games. He broke the world record three times en route to securing the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw F64 event. Antil opened with a throw of 66.95m, surpassing his own world record of 62.88m set in 2019. He followed this up with a second throw of 68.08m and a final throw of 68.55m, showcasing his exceptional talent and power.Manish Narwal:
A shooting sensation, Manish Narwal set a new Paralympic record at the 2020 Tokyo Games while securing the gold medal in the P4 – Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 event. Despite qualifying in seventh position, Narwal displayed remarkable composure and skill to finish first with a score of 218.2.Pramod Bhagat:
A badminton legend, Pramod Bhagat etched his name in history at the Tokyo 2020 Games, becoming the first badminton champion in Paralympic history. He defeated Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell 21-14, 21-17 in the men’s singles SL3 event, showcasing his strategic brilliance and powerful play.Krishna Nagar:
Another badminton star, Krishna Nagar delivered India a second gold medal in badminton at the Tokyo 2020 Games, winning the SL6 event. He defeated Hong Kong’s Chu Man Kai 21-17, 16-21, 21-17 in a thrilling gold medal match, solidifying India’s dominance in badminton at the Paralympics.These outstanding athletes have not only brought home gold medals but also inspired millions with their resilience, determination, and dedication. As India prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the nation is filled with hope and anticipation, eager to witness more triumphs from these inspiring athletes.
