Devendra Jhajharia

Devendra Jhajharia, born on June 10, 1981, is an Indian para-athlete whose resilience and determination have propelled him to extraordinary heights in javelin throw. Hailing from Rajasthan, India, Jhajharia lost his left hand in a childhood accident, but this setback didn't deter his spirit. He made history at the 2004 Athens Paralympics, clinching gold and setting a world record in javelin throw F46 category. His stellar performances continued with another gold at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, becoming the first Indian to win two Paralympic gold medals. Jhajharia's journey embodies triumph over adversity, inspiring countless individuals globally.

A glimpse of his achievements:-

• In 2002, Devendra Jhajharia got a gold medal in the FESPIC Games (8th), held in South Korea.
• He is the second Indian Paralympian to bring gold medal in the javelin throw (62.15m) to the country in Summer Paralympics of 2004 at Athens. Same year, he was honored with Arjuna Award for his dynamic performances in javelin throw.
• In 2013, he won a gold medal at IPC Athletics World Championship which was held in France (Lyon).
• He is the first Paralympian who received the honor of Padma Shri in 2012.
• At Summer Paralympics which was held in Rio de Janeiro (2016), he won another gold medal at the same event, where he improved his previous records (59.77m).