The World of Limitless Possibilities

Paralympics celebrate athletes with locomotor, sensory or intellectual disabilities - resilience that quells stereotypes and redefines possibilities.

Bharat debuted in 1968; first medal in swimming 1972. Dr Deepa Malik - Khel Ratna, Arjuna, Padma Shri - left an indelible mark.

At 29 a spine tumour left her paralysed waist down; she chose para-athletics over remorse - breakthrough Rio 2016 shot-put silver.

Former swimmer switched sports; silver changed perceptions about physical limitations.

First Indian female Paralympic athletics medallist; faced societal underestimation; family support and fortitude turned obstacles into stepping stones.

Proponent of 'ability beyond disability'; sports challenge stereotypes when people witness para-athletes' skill.

Deepa advocates inclusivity, disability sports awareness in schools, empowering women through adventure; advises: every setback is opportunity - disability is unique strength.

Paralympics gave new lease of life; youth are voice of tomorrow; believe in yourself and inspire others.

Athletes from across the country trained for weeks; spectators cheered; nine resolved runners waited for the gun at the hundred-yard dash.

Excitement high for final event; months of training lead to this moment.

Pistol fired; smallest runner stumbled on asphalt; dreams dashed in dirt; cry of anguish.

Dramatic turn: competition interrupted by compassion.

Eight runners pulled up, returned to help the fallen boy, brought him to his feet, joined hands and walked the dash together.

Hundred-yard dash reduced to a walk under Special Olympics banner - ethos of inclusion.

Race ended with nine gold medals, hands still joined, standing ovation - faces said more than words.

Message: empathy over individual victory; collective support defines true winning.