Murlikant Petkar is India’s first Paralympic gold medalist

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Born on November 1, 1944, in the Peth Islampur region of Sangli, Maharashtra

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He served as a private or jawan of the craftsman rank in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) in the Indian Army

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Unfortunately, during the 1965 war against Pakistan, he sustained severe bullet wounds, which left him disabled

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Petkar’s spirit remained unbroken. He transitioned from being a boxer at EME, Secunderabad, to pursuing swimming and other sports after his injury

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Murlikant Petkar was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2018

His story serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that determination and passion can overcome even the most challenging circumstances

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A sports film titled “Chandu Champion”, directed by Kabir Khan, is based on the life of Murlikant Petkar

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