In 2021, Avani Lekhara created history at the Tokyo Paralympic Games by becoming the first Indian woman to win gold at the Paralympics.
As the shooter from Jaipur looks to grab more golds in Paris in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1, Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone, and Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1, here’s a look at her journey.
At just 11 years old, Avani was paralysed from the waist down after a car accident, confining her to a wheelchair. She faced not only the physical challenges but also the overwhelming waves of anger and helplessness within.
Her father encouraged her to explore sports and took her to a shooting and archery range. The moment she first held a rifle in 2015, she felt an instant connection with the shooting sport.
Inspired by Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist in shooting, she set on a path that would eventually lead to gold!
However, the path was far from smooth, as training was a challenge due to the heavy weight of the rifle.
Gradually, Avani grew to love the sport and began competing in state events, eventually progressing to national and international levels.
In 2017, she won gold at the Tokyo Paralympic Games in 2021.
“Some people believe it is easier for us, but it is not…To live with a disability is a victory in itself,” she told The Bridge in 2019.
Recognising her contributions, she was even appointed as the Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) by the Rajasthan Government.Image: Avani/ Facebook
After undergoing gallbladder surgery in March 2024, Avani made a strong comeback, dedicating herself to preparing for the Paralympics.
“And whatever it is, even if it is a negative or positive motivation, I try to keep it outside the (firing) lane. When I go to the lane, I am only focusing and concentrating on my process rather than thinking about other things,” she told PTI.
As Avani aims to win more medals for the country, she follows her personal mantra: “Life consists not in holding good cards, but in playing those cards you hold well.”