Long ago, in 1948, a doctor named Ludwig Guttmann had a big idea. He wanted to help soldiers who were injured during World War II, especially those with spinal cord injuries. Dr. Guttmann believed that sports could be a way to help these soldiers heal and feel strong again. So, he organised a small sports competition in Stoke Mandeville, England. This event was special because it was just for these injured soldiers, and it became known as the Stoke Mandeville Games. Little did anyone know, this small event would grow into something much bigger - the Paralympic Games.
A New Beginning in Rome
In 1960, the first Paralympic Games was held in Rome, Italy. About 400 athletes from 23 different countries came together to compete. It was a historic moment, as it was the first time athletes with disabilities around the world had a chance to showcase their skills on such a big stage. Over the years, the Paralympic Games grew, welcoming athletes with many different types of disabilities, like amputations, blindness, and cerebral palsy. Today, thousands of athletes from over 100 nations compete in the Paralympics every four years, just like the Olympic Games.
The Power of the Paralympics
As the Paralympic Games became more popular, they also became more important. People started to pay attention to the incredible achievements of Paralympic athletes. With more media coverage, people all around the world began to admire and respect Paralympic athletes, regard them as equals to their Olympic counterparts.
A Celebration of Strength and Spirit
The Paralympic Games are about celebrating the incredible strength, resilience, and spirit of athletes with disabilities. The Games include many different sports, like athletics, swimming, and wheelchair basketball. Each sport is carefully designed to make sure every athlete has a fair chance to compete.
In recent years, more and more people have become excited about the Paralympic Games. With more media attention, sponsorships, and public interest, the Paralympics have become a global celebration. They are a powerful reminder that everyone, no matter their abilities, has the potential to achieve great things. The Paralympic Games continue to inspire people all over the world, showing that true strength comes from within.
India’s Rising Paralympic Stars
Indian athletes have become formidable competitors in the Paralympics, steadily gaining global recognition and success. India's Paralympic journey began in 1968, but it was in the 21st century, Indian athletes truly made their mark.
Key Achievements:
- Murlikant Petkar: India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, won the men's 50m freestyle three event at the 1972 Heidelberg Games with a world record time of 37.33 seconds.
- Devendra Jhajaria: Won gold at the 2004 Athens Games in the men's javelin throw F44/46 event, setting a new world record with a distance of 62.15m.
- Avani Lekhara: India’s first female Paralympic gold medallist, won the women’s 10m air rifle SH1 at Tokyo 2020, setting a new Paralympic record. She also won bronze in the women’s 50m rifle 3 position SH1.
- Sumit Antil: Won gold in the men's javelin throw F64 at Tokyo 2020, breaking the world record three times, with a best throw of 68.55m.
- Manish Narwal: Set a new Paralympic record to win gold in the P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 event at the 2020 Tokyo Games with a score of 218.2.
- Deepa Malik: She started her career at the age of 30. She is the first Indian woman to win a medal in Paralympic Games and won a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in shot put.
- Mariyappan Thangavelu: He is India's first Paralympian gold medalist since 2004.
In March 2016, Mariyappan cleared a remarkable height of 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) in the men's T-42 high jump event at the IPC Grand Prix in Tunisia, securing his qualification for the 2016 Summer Paralympics. At the Rio Games, he soared to victory, clinching the gold medal in the T-42 category with an impressive jump of 1.89m (6 ft 2 in).
In November 2019, Mariyappan continued to showcase his talent by clearing 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) in the men's T-63 high jump event at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships in Dubai, earning a bronze medal and finishing just behind fellow Indian Sharad Kumar.
In August 2021, he added another feather to his cap by winning a silver medal in the men's T-63 high jump event at the 2020 Summer Paralympics, marking his second Paralympic medal.
Badminton’s Impact on the Paralympics
Badminton debuted as a Paralympic sport at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and quickly became one of the most anticipated events. The sport's inclusion brought new excitement and opportunities for athletes with disabilities, showcasing a fast-paced, competitive game that requires agility, precision, and strategic play. With singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories across various classifications, para-badminton highlights incredible talent and determination.
Indian Dominance in Para-Badminton
Indian para-badminton players have emerged as dominant forces globally, contributing significantly to the sport's popularity and India's success in the Paralympics. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, India made history by winning four medals in para-badminton:
- Pramod Bhagat: Won gold in men’s singles SL3, solidifying his status as one of the world’s top para-badminton players.
- Suhas Yathiraj: He claimed silver in men’s singles SL4, balancing his career as an IAS officer with his passion for badminton.
- Manoj Sarkar: Secured bronze in men’s singles SL3, further establishing India as a para-badminton powerhouse.
- Krishna Nagar: Clinched gold in the SH6 category, showcasing his remarkable agility and competitiveness.
Expectations for Paris 2024 Paralympics
Looking ahead to the Paris 2024 Paralympics, India’s para-badminton players are expected to continue their impressive performances. With the momentum from Tokyo 2020, Indian athletes are strong contenders for multiple medals. Pramod Bhagat and Krishna Nagar are likely to defend their titles, while other players like Suhas Yathiraj and Manoj Sarkar are anticipated to compete fiercely for top honors.
The rising support and improved training facilities for para-athletes in India are expected to produce new talents who may make their Paralympic debut in Paris. The 2024 Games are set to witness even greater anticipation and excitement for badminton as India aims to surpass its previous achievements and further cement its legacy in Paralympic history.
Paris 2024 Event Programme
In Paris 2024, sixteen medal events will take place in para-badminton
Event Categories
- Singles – WH1 (men, women), WH2 (men, women), SL3 (men, women), SL4 (men, women), SU5 (men, women), SH6 (men, women)
- Doubles - WH1-WH2 (men, women)
- Mixed doubles – SL3-SU5, SH6
Paris 2024 Venue: Porte de la Chapelle Arena
Para badminton at Paris 2024 will be held at the Porte de la Chapelle Arena, an eco-design venue with a seating capacity of 6,700. This venue will also host Para powerlifting during the Games. Built-in central Paris for the Paralympic and Olympic Games, the arena will be transformed into a cultural and sports hub for northern Paris after the Games. 80% of the building’s surface is covered with greenery, and recyclable aluminum and bio-based wood are integral to the complex's construction.
As we look forward to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Sports, we celebrate the incredible journey and achievements of all Paralympic athletes. India's para-athletes have shown remarkable skill and dedication, especially in para-badminton, and have inspired the nation with their performances. With a bright future ahead, we wish all athletes the best of luck as they prepare to compete in Paris. May they continue to break barriers, set new records, and inspire millions with their incredible talent and unwavering spirit.