New Delhi, June 3: Pramod Bhagat, one of India’s most successful para-badminton players, has clinched numerous international titles in the men’s singles SL3 category. His dedication, discipline, and consistent performance have earned him global recognition, inspiring countless athletes.
Born on June 4, 1988, Pramod hails from Bihar, but his family resides in Attabira, Bargarh district of Odisha. At just five years old, he contracted polio, resulting in a disability in his left leg. However, he refused to let this setback define him.
Pramod’s father, Rama Bhagat, worked as a farmer in their village. When Pramod’s aunt, Kishnu Devi, who had no children, adopted him, she took him to Odisha for better medical care.
Pramod completed his education in Odisha and pursued ITI after finishing high school. Alongside his studies, he developed a keen interest in sports. At the age of 13, he attended a badminton match, which deepened his passion for the game. He began practicing badminton for hours on end.
By the age of 15, Pramod participated in his first tournament against able-bodied players, where he excelled and won the district champion title.
In 2009, Pramod won gold in men’s singles at the World Championship. He continued his winning streak with gold medals in 2013, 2015, 2019, 2022, 2024, and 2026. Notably, he secured gold at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games in the men’s singles event, as well as at the Asian Para Games in 2018 and 2022.
For his outstanding contributions to sports, Pramod was awarded the ‘Arjuna Award’ in 2019, followed by the ‘Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award’ in 2021. In 2022, he received the prestigious ‘Padma Shri’ award.
Pramod Bhagat stands as a beacon of inspiration for athletes due to his perseverance, discipline, and remarkable achievements. Despite facing physical challenges, he has proudly become a world champion and Paralympic gold medalist. His success conveys a powerful message: with determination, self-confidence, and relentless effort, any obstacle can be overcome.
Leave a Comment