First Indian to Win Paralympics Medal, Know His Name

Murlikant Petkar is India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, winning a historic individual gold at the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. Setting a world record in the 50m freestyle swimming event with a time of 37.33 seconds, Petkar paved the way for future Indian Paralympians. His journey from a talented boxer to a Paralympic swimming champion is an inspiring tale of determination and perseverance.

Early Life and Career of Murlikant Petkar

Murlikant Petkar was born on 1 November 1944 in the Peth Islampur region of Sangli, Maharashtra. From a young age, Petkar displayed a keen interest in sports, particularly boxing, a sport that requires immense physical and mental strength. His natural talent in the sport caught the attention of the Indian Army, where he was enlisted in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) as a craftsman. Before his injury, Petkar excelled as a boxer while serving in the Army.

Life Changing Injury

In 1965, during the Indo-Pak war, Petkar sustained severe injuries, receiving nine bullet wounds, one of which lodged in his spine. This injury left him paralyzed below the waist, drastically altering the course of his life. Despite this setback, Petkar did not lose his passion for sports. After extensive treatment at the INHS Asvini hospital in Bombay, he shifted his focus to swimming, a sport where he could still compete despite his disability.

Transition to Paralympic Sports

Determined to continue his involvement in sports, Petkar began training in swimming, alongside other events like javelin, table tennis, and slalom. His first major international appearance came at the 1968 Summer Paralympics, where he participated in table tennis, making it past the first round. However, his biggest success came at the 1972 Paralympics, where he not only won gold in the 50m freestyle swimming but also competed in other events like javelin and slalom, making it to the finals in all three.

1972 Paralympics Gold Medal

At the 1972 Summer Paralympics, Petkar became a national hero by winning the gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event. His time of 37.33 seconds set a new world record. Petkar’s incredible achievement remains one of the highlights of Indian sports history, making him the country’s first Paralympic gold medalist. His win at Heidelberg was a testament to his resilience and never-give-up attitude.

Recognition and Later Life

In recognition of his contributions to sports, Murlikant Petkar was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri in 2018. He had also been employed by TELCO in Pune after his sporting career. Even in his later years, Petkar continues to be an inspiration for aspiring athletes in India, showing that physical challenges can be overcome with dedication and hard work.

Murklikant Petkar in Popular Media

The incredible story of Murlikant Petkar’s life has been adapted into a Hindi-language sports drama film titled Chandu Champion. Directed by Kabir Khan, the film stars Kartik Aaryan in the lead role and showcases Petkar’s journey from a boxer in the Army to a Paralympic gold medalist. The film, set to release soon, aims to bring wider recognition to Petkar’s legacy.