Varun Singh Bhati’s ascent to para-athletic stardom is a testament to perseverance against staggering odds. Hailing from Noida and born in 1995, tragedy struck early when polio at six months left one leg permanently impaired, worsened by faulty treatment. His family’s encouragement, however, fueled dreams of greatness, refusing to let disability define him.
Sports became Varun’s outlet from childhood. Shifting from basketball to high jump, he trained rigorously with mainstream athletes for motivation. Coach Satyanarayan’s mentorship and GoSports Foundation support were game-changers, honing his T42 category talents.
His international debut shimmered in 2012, hitting 1.60 meters for London Paralympics qualification, sidelined only by slot constraints. Victories followed swiftly: gold at 2014 China Open and Asian Para Games participation.
The pinnacle arrived in 2016. Gold and Asian record at IPC Asia-Oceania with 1.82 meters, followed by Rio Paralympics bronze via a stellar 1.86-meter jump—India’s pride on global stage. He added 2017 World Championships bronze and 2018 Asian Para Games silver (1.82m).
On August 29, 2018, the Arjuna Award crowned his achievements. Varun’s narrative redefines limits, proving that with grit and guidance, even the harshest beginnings can lead to extraordinary heights in para-sports.