The Paralympics are a stage where stories of human triumph and perseverance are written in gold, silver, and bronze. As the world gears up for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, India’s contingent is brimming with potential medalists who are ready to make history. In Tokyo 2020, India celebrated one of its best Paralympic outings with a haul of 19 medals. Now, with Paris on the horizon, the expectations are even higher. This article delves into the top 10 Indian athletes who are the country’s best hopes for podium finishes at the 2024 Paralympics.
Paris 2024 Paralympics: A New Dawn for Indian Athletes:
The Paris 2024 Paralympics, set to begin on August 28, marks a new chapter in the journey of Indian para-athletes. With the momentum from Tokyo, where India secured five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes, the Indian contingent is looking to better that performance. India’s para-athletes have not just trained hard but have also shown incredible resilience and determination to compete at the highest level.
Avani Lekhara: Aiming for Another Historic Performance:
When Avani Lekhara clinched the gold in the R2 10m air rifle standing SH1 event at Tokyo 2020, she didn’t just win a medal—she became a symbol of inspiration for millions. Avani’s victory was a milestone, making her the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal. She further added a bronze in the women’s R8 50m rifle 3 positions SH1, establishing her as one of the top shooters in the world. As Paris 2024 approaches, all eyes will be on Avani to see if she can replicate, or even surpass, her Tokyo heroics.
Sumit Antil: Javelin Master Ready to Dominate Again:
Sumit Antil’s performance at Tokyo 2020 was nothing short of extraordinary. Not only did he win gold in the men’s javelin throw F64 category, but he also broke the world record three times in a single competition. His throw of 73.29m at the 2022 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou further solidified his status as the reigning world champion. In Paris, Sumit is expected to be one of India’s strongest contenders for gold, as he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in para-javelin.
Krishna Nagar: Defending His Para Badminton Crown:
Krishna Nagar made history in Tokyo by winning gold in the men’s singles SH6 category of para-badminton. With Pramod Bhagat missing out, Nagar is the only Indian para-badminton player from Tokyo who will defend his title in Paris. His victory over Hong Kong’s Chu Man Kai was a testament to his grit and determination. As the reigning world champion, Nagar is poised to add another medal to his collection in Paris.
Bhavinaben Patel: The Queen of Para Table Tennis:
Bhavinaben Patel’s journey to silver in the women’s singles class 4 at Tokyo 2020 was a breakthrough moment for Indian para table tennis. Since then, she has continued her winning streak, securing gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and bronze at the 2022 Asian Para Games. Bhavinaben will be a strong contender in both the women’s singles and doubles events at Paris 2024, with her sights set on turning her silver into gold.
Sheetal Devi: Archery’s Rising Star:
Born with phocomelia, a rare condition resulting in the absence of upper limbs, Sheetal Devi has redefined the possibilities in para-archery. Her double gold victory at the 2022 Asian Para Games in the women’s individual compound open and mixed doubles categories, along with a silver in the women’s doubles, has established her as a force to be reckoned with. Awarded the Arjuna Award and the Best Youth Athlete Award, Sheetal is aiming to continue her golden streak at Paris 2024.
Yogesh Kathuniya: Eyeing Gold in Discus Throw:
Yogesh Kathuniya, who won silver in the men’s discus throw F56 event at Tokyo 2020, has been a consistent performer on the world stage. His back-to-back silver medals at the 2023 and 2024 World Championships have only fueled his hunger for gold. In Paris, Kathuniya will be one of India’s main hopes in the field events, aiming to turn his consistent performances into a top podium finish.
Deepthi Jeevanji: Sprinting Toward Glory:
Making her Paralympic debut at Paris 2024, Deepthi Jeevanji has already set the athletics world on fire with her record-breaking performances. The para-athlete from Telangana secured her spot by setting a new Asian record in the women’s 400m T20 category and followed it up with a world record at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe. With her eyes set firmly on gold, Deepthi is ready to make her mark on the global stage.
Mariyappan Thangavelu: High Jump Hero Returns:
Mariyappan Thangavelu is no stranger to the Paralympic podium, having won gold at Rio 2016 and silver at Tokyo 2020 in the men’s high jump T42 and T63 categories, respectively. As he heads into Paris 2024, Mariyappan is determined to complete his collection with another gold. His recent victories, including a silver at the Hangzhou Asian Para Games and gold at the 2024 World Championships, make him one of India’s brightest prospects.
Manish Narwal: Shooting for the Stars:
Manish Narwal’s gold medal in the P4 – Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 event at Tokyo 2020 was a defining moment in Indian para-shooting. Setting a new Paralympic record in the process, Narwal has shown that he can perform under pressure. As he gears up for Paris 2024, Narwal will be looking to add more accolades to his name, with both individual and mixed events in his sights.
Suhas Yathiraj: The IAS Officer with a Badminton Dream:
Suhas Yathiraj, an IAS officer and a para-badminton champion, is currently ranked world No.1 in the men’s singles SL4 category. His silver at Tokyo 2020 was a stepping stone, and he has since continued to dominate the sport. Suhas will be one of India’s top medal hopefuls in Paris, aiming to turn his silver into gold while also competing in mixed doubles.
FAQs:
1. When and where are the Paris 2024 Paralympics being held?
The Paris 2024 Paralympics are scheduled from August 28 to September 8, 2024, in Paris, France.
2. How many medals did India win in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics?
India won a total of 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, including five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes.
3. Who was the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal?
Avani Lekhara became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal in the R2 10m air rifle standing SH1 event at Tokyo 2020.
4. Which Indian athlete broke the world record three times in the javelin throw at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics?
Sumit Antil broke the world record three times in the men’s javelin throw F64 category at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
5. Who is the reigning world champion in the men’s singles SH6 para-badminton category?
Krishna Nagar is the reigning world champion in the men’s singles SH6 para-badminton category.
6. How can India improve its medal tally at the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
India can improve its medal tally by supporting its top athletes with the best training facilities, international exposure, and mental health resources.
Conclusion:
The Paris 2024 Paralympics represent another golden opportunity for India to showcase its growing prowess in para-sports. With a strong contingent of athletes who have already proven their mettle on the world stage, India is poised for another successful Paralympic campaign. From Avani Lekhara’s shooting brilliance to Sumit Antil’s javelin dominance, each athlete carries the hopes of a nation. As these sports stars prepare to take on the world, the entire country will be cheering them on, hoping to see the tricolor rise high at the podiums in Paris.
Stay updated with all the insights.
Navigate news, 1 email day.
Subscribe to Qrius
