Paralympics 2024: Re-live top Indian moments from this edition

The Paris Paralympics 2024 has exceeded all expectations.

From record-breaking performances to first-time champions, India's athletes have not just competed; they have excelled, bringing glory to the nation, and here are some of the most unforgettable moments that have defined India’s golden run at these games.

Redemption of Indian Archery in the form of Harvinder Singh

Harvinder Singh made history by winning India's first-ever gold medal in archery at the Paralympics.

Competing in the men's recurve open at the iconic Les Invalides arena, Singh's victory over Poland's Lukasz Ciszek was dominant, winning in just three sets with a scoreline of 6-0.

Singh’s journey to the top included impressive wins against world-class competitors, including Chinese Taipei's Lung-Hui Tseng and Iran's Mohammad Reza.

Sumit Antil and the Saga of Breaking Records

Sumit Antil, the reigning Paralympic and world champion, continued his record-breaking spree in the F64 javelin throw event.

At the Paris Paralympics, Antil shattered his previous Paralympic record not once, but twice, ultimately setting a new benchmark with a throw of 70.59m.

Despite falling short of his world record of 73.29m, Antil’s performance reaffirmed his dominance and made him the first Indian to win consecutive golds in Para Athletics at the Paralympics.

His consistency under pressure and ability to break records at crucial moments have made Antil a national hero, earning India one of its 29 medals at this year’s games, including seven golds.

Praveen Kumar, the Asian record-holder

Praveen Kumar’s gold in the men’s high jump T64 event was a moment of excellence.

The 21-year-old jumper from Noida set a new Asian record with a jump of 2.08m, outclassing his competitors, including Derek Loccident of the USA and Uzbekistan’s Temurbek Giyazov.

Known for his inspiring journey overcoming a physical disability, Kumar has previously earned accolades, including a gold at the Asian Para Games and a bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships, solidifying his place as one of India’s premier athletes.

India’s Golden Run in the SL3 Category

Nitesh Kumar made history by clinching his first-ever Paralympic gold in the SL3 badminton category, following in the footsteps of Pramod Bhagat’s Tokyo triumph.

In a grueling 80-minute match against Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell, Kumar displayed his skill, eventually winning 21-14, 18-21, 23-21.

This victory was particularly sweet for Kumar, who defeated Bethell for the first time in ten attempts.

His journey through the tournament included a win over Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara in the semifinals and showcased his growth as a top para-shuttler.

Avani Lekhara’s Historic Defense

Avani Lekhara, a name synonymous with excellence in shooting, defended her gold medal in the 10m air rifle SH1 category, becoming the first Indian woman to win medals at two different Paralympic editions.

In a nail-biting final, Lekhara broke her previous Paralympic record by a mere 0.1 point, scoring 249.7.

The dramatic last shot saw her narrowly edge out Korea’s Lee Yunri, who faltered in the final moment.

Lekhara’s gold, alongside Mona Agrawal’s bronze, marked India’s first-ever double podium finish in this category at the Paralympics, highlighting the depth of talent in Indian shooting.