Para-athlete Suvarna Raj, a beacon of resilience and determination, has overcome immense challenges to achieve remarkable success in her sporting career. Diagnosed with polio at the tender age of two, Raj faced societal stigma and limited opportunities. However, her unwavering spirit and unwavering support from her family propelled her to defy expectations.
Raj’s journey to the pinnacle of para-sports was arduous and filled with obstacles. It took her 33 years to prove her worth, a testament to her indomitable will. Her perseverance paid off when she clinched two medals at the 2014 Asian Para Games in Korea and two more at the Thailand Para Table Tennis Open in 2013.
At the NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 award ceremony, Raj shared her inspiring story, highlighting the challenges faced by disabled individuals in society. She emphasized the need for a more inclusive and supportive environment, where people with disabilities are not marginalized but celebrated for their abilities.
Raj’s achievements have not only brought her personal glory but have also inspired countless others. Her story serves as a reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible. She has become a role model for aspiring para-athletes, proving that disability is not a barrier to success.
Meanwhile, the Indian women’s cricket team was honored with the ‘Sports Performance of the Year’ award at the same ceremony. The team, represented by Shreyanka Patil, Shafali Verma, Sneh Rana, and Radha Yadav, has made significant strides in recent years, thanks to the support of the BCCI.
Shreyanka Patil expressed her gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the positive changes in women’s cricket in India. She credited the BCCI for providing equal opportunities and financial support, which has empowered the team to achieve greater heights.
