Triumph Over Tragedy: Kapil Parmar's Inspiring Paralympic Journey

Kapil Parmar, who was electrocuted as a child, has become India's pioneering para judoka to win a Paralympics medal. Despite substantial challenges, the 23-year-old secured a bronze in the men's 60kg (J1) category. Parmar's story is a tale of resilience, dedication, and an undying love for judo.

Kapil Parmar was tragically electrocuted in his childhood while playing in the fields of his village in Madhya Pradesh. He overcame that massive shock to be an established para athlete and on Thursday became the first Indian judoka to win a medal at the Paralympics.

The 23-year-old from Sehore in Madhya Pradesh won a bronze in the men's 60kg (J1) category by convincingly defeating Brazil's Elielton de Oliveira in the play-off. Parmar's win is the biggest achievement of his career, coming after years of hardship. As a child, Parmar suffered a severe electric shock when he accidentally touched a water pump, resulting in him being in a coma for six months. Competing in the J1 class, he has lost 90 percent of his vision.

Despite the odds, Parmar's dedication to judo never waned, thanks to the support of his coach, Munawar Azar, and his brother Lalit. Parmar hopes his historic win will lift the profile of para judo in India and inspire others in para sports. He says he is proud to have made his country and parents proud and dedicates his medal to his coach.

(With inputs from agencies.)