Tendulkar felicitates Paralympian medallists

Mumbai: Four Paralympian athletes who won medals for India in the recently concluded Games at Rio were felicitated by Sachin Tendulkar in an event here on Monday with the pledge to support them in future.

“It feels special to be among them here. They were called differently challenged or differently abled but according to me they are extra ordinarily abled. We have fair share of trials and tribulations in life but these athletes have multifold problems, adversities and challenges. They have reached here through their focus, determination, dedication, guidance and support of family. All obstacles are just a state of the mind,” Tendulkar said.

“I am extra happy to come with likeminded people to celebrate and support, look after future and prepare for 2020 (Paralympic Games), 2024 and beyond that.

Thanks to Go Sports and coaches who guided them. Journey has just begun, with more support and right frame of mind they will bring more medals,” he added.

For Devendra Jhajharia who won gold medal in men’s Javelin throw to win his second Paralympic gold ever it was dream come true for him to meet his inspiration Sachin. “It is dream come true to meet my inspiration Sachin Tendulkar,” he said.

Silver medallist in women’s shotput and inspiration to many Deepa Malik revealed that the outlook towards para athletes has changed after Rio. “We are on the cusp of transformation. Earlier it was seen as under privileged sport now outlook has changed after medals people reach out in a dignified manner,” she said.

In recognition of their medals, Aster DM Healthcare will offer Lifetime Healthcare to the champions. The medal winners also received cheques of Rs 15 lakh. Medal winners in earlier Paralympic editions will also be presented with 15 lakh cheques.

The contributors to the corpus led by Tendulkar included V. Chamundesh-warnath (Hyderabad District Badminton Association president), Nimmagadda Prasad (Industrialist and co-owner Kerala Blasters), Dr Azad Moopen (chairman & managing director, Aster DM Healthcare), Sanjay Ghodawat (chairman, Sanjay Ghodawat Group) and Abhay Gadgil (director, Abhay Gadgil Constructions).