Rakshitha Raju, a visually impaired athlete from Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, has made history by becoming the first Indian female athlete to qualify for the Women’s 1500m Running T-11 Category at the Paralympics 2024 in Paris. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her unwavering determination and the transformative power of sports.
Born with a visual impairment, Rakshitha’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Losing her parents at a young age, she was raised by her grandmother, who herself has speech and hearing impairments. Despite these obstacles, Rakshitha’s passion for athletics ignited during her school days at the Ashakirana School for the Blind.
Under the guidance of her physical education teacher, Rakshitha discovered her talent for running. It was during one of her early competitions that she met her current coach and guide runner, Rahul Balakrishna. Together, they have worked tirelessly to hone her skills and prepare her for the rigors of international competition.
Rakshitha’s journey to the Paralympics has been supported by CBM India, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities. Through their Inclusive Sports program, CBM India provides tailored support to Para athletes, including Rakshitha. This support has been instrumental in her preparation for the Paralympics, enabling her to focus on her training without the burden of financial constraints.
Speaking about her selection for the Paralympics, Rakshitha expressed her gratitude and excitement. “I am incredibly honored and excited to represent India at the Paris Paralympics. This journey has been filled with challenges, but each step has brought me closer to my dream. I am grateful to CBM India for their unwavering support and belief in my talent.”
Mr. Sony Thomas, Executive Director of CBM India, hailed Rakshitha’s achievement as a testament to the transformative power of sports. “Rakshitha Raju’s journey to the Paralympics 2024 is a true example of the transformative power of sports. At CBM India, we are deeply honored to have supported Rakshitha in her athletic career. Her story captures her spirit of resilience and determination. Rakshitha’s success reflects our broader commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of life. We are immensely proud of her achievements and look forward to cheering her on as she represents India on the world stage.”
Rakshitha’s selection for the Paralympics is not only a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for India. Her participation in the Women’s 1500m Running T-11 Category will inspire countless others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and break down barriers.
