Murlikant Petkar Wins India's First Paralympic Gold in 1972

New Delhi, October 31: Murlikant Petkar is remembered as an athlete who turned personal tragedy into sporting glory. His inspiring life story includes a war injury, a remarkable change of sport and a historic gold medal for India at the Paralympic Games.

Murlikant Petkar was born on November 1, 1944, in Peth Islampur village of Maharashtra's Sangli district. He was drawn to sports from childhood, and his physical strength led him to join the Indian Army. He chose boxing as his main discipline and was known for his powerful punches. In 1964, he earned the opportunity to play for the Army at the International Services Sports Meet.

The year 1965 brought a turning point. During the India-Pakistan war, a sudden Pakistani air strike left Murlikant hit by nine bullets, and a tanker passed over him. He struggled between life and death for many months. A bullet that lodged in his spine meant he could not walk on his own feet again.

Despite this, he refused to accept defeat. Once boxing was behind him, he decided to build a career in swimming as a para athlete. He gradually adapted to the sport and began drawing attention with his results. After success at the national level, he went on to compete in several international tournaments.

His biggest career achievement came in 1972, when he won gold for India at the Paralympics held in Germany. He became the first Indian to win a Paralympic gold medal, claiming it in the 50-metre freestyle swimming event. In 2018, he was awarded the Padma Shri, and in 2025 he received the Lifetime Arjuna Award.