Inspiring Journey of India’s Blind Para Athletes
Rakshitha Raju, a remarkable 24-year-old athlete, has defied the odds to become a leading middle-distance para athlete in India. Born blind in a remote village in southern India, her journey has been anything but easy. By the age of ten, she had lost both of her parents and was raised by her grandmother, who is hearing and speech impaired. Despite the challenges, Rakshitha’s spirit remained unbroken. She recalls how people in her village would often say, “She is blind, she is a waste.” However, these words only fueled her determination to prove them wrong.
At the age of 13, a pivotal moment changed her life. A sports teacher recognized her potential and introduced her to the world of athletics. Initially, Rakshitha was skeptical. “How can I run on a track I can’t see?” she wondered. Her teacher explained that visually impaired runners could have guides who run alongside them, connected by a tether. This revelation opened a new door for Rakshitha. With the support of her peers, she began her journey in athletics, eventually leading her to compete in national events.
Rakshitha’s story is not just about personal triumph; it also highlights the importance of support systems in sports. Her grandmother, despite her own disabilities, understood Rakshitha’s struggles and aspirations. This bond of mutual understanding became a source of strength for Rakshitha, allowing her to pursue her dreams against all odds.
The Role of Guide Runners in Para Athletics
In para athletics, guide runners play a crucial role in helping visually impaired athletes navigate the track. Rakshitha’s journey took a significant turn in 2016 when she met Rahul Balakrishna at the National Games. Rahul, a middle-distance runner himself, recognized the potential in Rakshitha and decided to take on the dual role of coach and guide. This partnership has been instrumental in Rakshitha’s success.
The relationship between a visually impaired athlete and their guide is built on trust and communication. They are connected by a tether, which allows them to run in sync. During races, the guide must alert the athlete about curves and competitors overtaking them. This requires a deep understanding of each other’s movements and needs. Rahul emphasizes that “it’s the small things that matter” during their training sessions. They have developed a strong bond over the years, with Rakshitha stating, “I believe in my guide runner more than myself.”
Their dedication has paid off. Together, they won gold medals at the 2018 and 2023 Asian Games, returning to Rakshitha’s village as heroes. The same community that once doubted her now celebrated her achievements with a grand procession. This transformation is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of supportive relationships in sports.
Simran Sharma: A Trailblazer in Para Athletics
Simran Sharma is another inspiring figure in Indian para athletics. She is the only other visually impaired female athlete from India to qualify for the Paralympics alongside Rakshitha. Simran’s journey began when she realized that she needed a guide to continue competing after struggling during the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021. Finding a suitable guide proved challenging, as the right match requires synchronization in technique and speed.
Eventually, Simran found Abhay Kumar, a young athlete training at the same facility. Their partnership began just weeks before their first international competition, the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Japan. Despite a rocky start that led to disqualification in their first race, they quickly learned to work together. By the time they reached the 200m race, they had mastered their coordination and won gold.
Simran’s success continued at the Paralympics in Paris, where she made history by becoming the first Indian woman with a visual impairment to win a Paralympic medal. She secured a bronze in the 200m race, a moment of immense pride not just for herself but for the entire nation. Simran’s journey exemplifies the resilience and determination of para athletes, showcasing their ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
The Future of Para Athletics in India
Both Rakshitha and Simran are now looking ahead to future competitions, including the next Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. They are determined to improve their performances and aim for medals. However, the journey is not without its challenges. Guide runners like Rahul and Abhay often face uncertainty regarding their long-term roles. While they receive recognition when their athletes win, the lack of financial support and career opportunities for guides remains a significant concern.
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) provides some assistance, but it is not enough to ensure a stable future for guide runners. Both Rakshitha and Simran have sponsorship deals that help fund their training, but they still bear the responsibility of compensating their guides. There is a growing call for more support from the state, including job opportunities for guides in public sectors reserved for athletes.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of these athletes shines brightly. Rakshitha hopes to inspire others in her village, showing them the possibilities that sports can offer. Simran, too, is focused on changing the color of her medal in future competitions. Their stories are not just about personal achievements; they represent a broader movement towards inclusivity and recognition for para athletes in India.
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