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The triumphant return of India's Paralympic athletes from the Paris Games was marked by a grand reception at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. A wave of national pride and admiration washed over the athletes as they were greeted by a sea of cheering fans, showering them with flower petals and applause. The team's historic performance in Paris, culminating in a record-breaking medal haul, had ignited a surge of enthusiasm across the nation.
Among the returning heroes were Avani Lekhara, a star Indian para-shooter, who had made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two gold medals in the Paralympic Games. Her victory in the women's 10m air rifle final solidified her status as a national icon. Mona Agarwal, another Indian para-shooter, also secured a bronze medal in the same event, adding to India's burgeoning medal count. Rakesh Kumar, a para-archer, attributed his success to the unwavering support of his coaches, expressing gratitude for their guidance and dedication.
The Indian archery pair, Rakesh Kumar and Sheetal Devi, clinched the bronze medal in the Mixed Team Compound event, showcasing their exceptional skill and teamwork. Their victory over Eleonora Sarti and Matteo Bonnacina of Italy in the bronze medal match further amplified India's impressive showing at the Paralympics. With 27 medals, including six golds, nine silvers, and 12 bronzes, India not only surpassed its previous medal count but also achieved its highest-ever gold medal tally at a Paralympic Games event, surpassing the five golds won in Tokyo 2020.
The Indian para-athletes' remarkable performance was a testament to their resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. They had not only etched their names in the annals of Paralympic history but also inspired millions across the nation with their extraordinary achievements. Their unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence had ignited a wave of national pride and provided a powerful symbol of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and achieve extraordinary feats.
Source: Watch: India’s Paris Paralympic champions receive a grand welcome in Delhi