Nitesh Kumar: IIT Mandi Alumnus and 2024 Paris Paralympics Gold Medalist for India
Nitesh Kumar, an esteemed graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, has etched his name in the annals of Indian sports history by winning a gold medal in the Men’s Singles SL3 badminton event at the Paris Paralympics 2024. This remarkable achievement came on Monday as he faced off against Daniel Bethell of England, securing victory with a scoreline of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21. Nitesh’s performance exemplified resilience and skill, especially as he initially dominated the match before demonstrating tenacity when Bethell equalized the score. Ultimately, it was Nitesh’s exceptional talent that led to his triumph, rendering him the second Indian athlete to win gold at the 2024 Paralympics, following Avani Lekhara’s historic achievement in women’s 10m air rifle shooting standing SH1.
The SL3 classification at the Paralympics accommodates athletes with significant lower limb disabilities, engaging them on a badminton court that is half its usual width. This unique arrangement emphasizes the remarkable adaptability and competitiveness of para-athletes. Previously, at the Tokyo Paralympics, Pramod Bhagat captured the gold in the men’s singles SL3 category, while Manoj Sarkar earned a bronze medal in the same division, highlighting the talent present within India’s para-badminton fraternity.
Nitesh Kumar’s journey to this prestigious accolade was not without challenges. In 2009, he tragically lost his left leg in a train accident in Visakhapatnam, which resulted in a prolonged period of immobility. During this difficult time, he exhibited exceptional determination by dedicating himself to the Indian Institute of Technology entrance examinations, ultimately succeeding in his endeavor and enrolling at IIT Mandi in 2013. It was during his collegiate years that Nitesh discovered a fervent passion for badminton, which propelled him to participate in the Para National Championships in 2016, representing the Haryana team.
His international career commenced auspiciously when he secured his first title at the Irish Para-Badminton International in 2017. Since then, he has amassed multiple prestigious titles, including accolades from the BWF Para Badminton World Circuit and Asian Para Games, thereby establishing himself as a formidable player on the global stage.
In addition to his impressive athletic accomplishments, Mr. Kumar serves as a Senior Badminton Coach for the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in Haryana, further contributing to the development of para-badminton in the country. Through his relentless perseverance and unwavering dedication, Nitesh Kumar not only exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship but also inspires countless individuals facing adversity to pursue their passions with fervor. His gold medal victory at the Paris Paralympics is a testament to the power of resilience and hard work in overcoming life’s challenges.
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