In a fitting tribute to India’s trailblazing Paralympian, Murlikant Petkar, the Sport Climbing Association of Maharashtra, in collaboration with the Event Organising Committee, is set to host a grand felicitation ceremony. The event, scheduled for December 3 at 11 am at Raga Palace, Pimpri, will mark the 51st anniversary of Petkar’s historic win and celebrate his enduring legacy in the realm of Indian sports.
Honorable Guests: The felicitation ceremony will witness the esteemed presence of Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh, GOC-IN-C, Southern Command, along with distinguished personalities such as Raman Gangakhedkar, an eminent public health expert and epidemiologist, and Kantilal H. Sancheti, the renowned orthopaedic physician and inventor of India’s first indigenous knee implant.
Memorable Achievements: Murlikant Petkar etched his name in history by securing India’s first-ever Paralympic gold medal in the 1972 Paralympics held in Heidelberg, Germany. His remarkable victory came in the 50m freestyle swimming category, where he not only clinched gold but also set a world record with an astounding time of 37.33 seconds. Petkar’s multifaceted talents were further showcased as he competed in javelin, precision javelin throw, and slalom disciplines, reaching the finals in each category.
Sharing Paralympic Memories: The ceremony promises to be a nostalgic journey as Murlikant Petkar shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs during the historic Paralympic Games. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand about the determination and spirit that led Petkar to achieve greatness in the face of adversity.
