Indian Para Athletes Receive Heros Welcome Upon Returning from Asian Para Games

New Delhi, October 26 (Daily Kiran) : Indian para-athletes who won medals at the 2026 Asian Para Games were greeted with great enthusiasm upon their return to New Delhi. Athletes Navdeep Singh, Ajit Yadav, and Dilip Gavit shared their experiences during a celebratory welcome that included traditional drum music.

Navdeep Singh, who earned a bronze medal in the men’s javelin throw F40/F41 category, expressed his joy at returning home. He remarked on the differences in event management between Japan and India, noting that the arrangements in Japan were quite distinct. “In Japan, the management was a bit different. We are used to having a complete Games Village, but this time the accommodations and training locations were separate,” he explained. Navdeep mentioned that he had to travel about 40 minutes daily for training and that the hotel lacked gym facilities. He also shared his plans to celebrate Diwali with his family, extending festive greetings to fellow countrymen.

Ajit Yadav, who secured a silver medal in the men’s javelin throw F46 category, expressed satisfaction with his performance. The warm welcome and honor ceremony heightened his happiness. “Winning was exhilarating. The way I was welcomed, with drums and a ceremony, doubled my joy,” he said. Ajit reflected on his past experiences in Japan, having participated in the Tokyo Paralympics and the World Championships. This was his third tournament in Japan, where he narrowly missed gold in a thrilling competition. He emphasized that mental and psychological challenges are inherent in high-stakes events, which ultimately make sports exciting.

Dilip Gavit, who clinched two gold medals in the men’s 100m and 400m T47 events, shared mixed feelings about his return. “I’m very happy and a bit sad. Happy because we’ve achieved something, but sad because when athletes return to places like Delhi or Haryana, they are welcomed with drums and celebrations. Here, there was no representative from the government or sports authority to greet us,” he lamented.

The athletes’ return highlights not only their achievements but also the need for greater recognition and support for para-athletes in India.