9 september 2024 : Kapil Parmar, a visually impaired Indian Paralympic medalist, faced criticism from his own village when he started practicing para-judo eight years ago. However, this only strengthened his resolve to achieve something special in his life. Parmar (24) became India’s first Paralympic medalist in judo when he won a bronze medal in the men’s 60 kg (J1) category at the Paris Paralympics on September 4.
Parmar said, “When I decided to start para-judo in 2017, some people in my village mocked me, saying that since I am visually impaired, I wouldn’t be able to play this sport. But it’s these very criticisms that drive you forward.” He added, “You should view such criticisms positively. They should be turned into a challenge and used to prove the critics wrong. Now, seeing my achievements, those who once criticized me support me.”
