They are often less paid attention to, so let us take a look
A strength sport, powerlifting is all about one’s strength and the mental ability to power lift weights. It is a sport that has evolved from a sport called odd lifts. Also a part of the Olympics, powerlifting involves three attempts on three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. The idea of this sport is to test the sportsperson’s ability and strength. The sport requires the athlete to attempt to lift a maximal weight in a single-lift effort. And just like any other sport, even this requires practice, patience, and determination. When it comes to being a para-athlete, it is all the more challenging. Powerlifters worldwide are making their nation proud, including athletes from India. Let us take a look at a few of the best but lesser-known Paralympic powerlifters from India.
Farman Basha
Bangalore-based Paralympic powerlifter Farman Basha started his streak of wins in 1998 when he won a gold medal and set a new national record at the 1999 FESPIC Games, where he also finished seventh overall. Basha has represented India at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, where he lifted 156.8 kilograms, finishing at the tenth spot. This Indian powerlifter also represented India at the 2012 Summer Paralympics. In the past, he has won a bronze medal at the 2010 Asian Para Games but later was upgraded to a silver medal after the Iranian powerlifter was disqualified due to doping. He is also a recipient of the Arjuna Award.
SakinaKhatun
Bangalore-based powerlifterSakinaKhatundidn't leave any stone unturned in her training for the sport. Khatun won a bronze medal in Weightlifting at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Khatun also participated in the 2014 Commonwealth Games, finishing 3rd in the women's weightlifting category. She also participated in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, where she scored the 5th position.
Rajinder Singh Rahelu
Punjab-based parapowerlifterRajinder Singh Rahelu took up powerlifting soon after finishing high school. Rachel first won a title in powerlifting in 1997, then won a National Powerlifting Championship. Rachel went on to win a bronze medal in 2004 at the Summer Paralympics in the 56 kg category, followed by representing India at the 2008 Summer Paralympics, where he finished fifth in the final. He is also a recipient of the Arjuna Award.
SachinChaudhary
A parapowerlifter, Chaudhary represented India at the 2012 Summer Paralympics, finishing 9th. He won a silver medal at the 2017 Powerlifting World Cup, also considered his career's best lift of 200 kg.
