Mariyappan Thangavelu - A Lifestory
Defying Gravity, Leaping Higher: Paralympic Champion, Inspirational High Jumper
Mariyappan Thangavelu is a highly accomplished Indian paralympic high jumper. Born on June 28, 1995, in Periyavadagampatti village, Tamil Nadu, his life story is one of resilience and determination. A bus accident at a young age resulted in a permanent disability in his right leg, but this adversity did not deter him from pursuing his dreams. He discovered his passion for high jumping during his school days and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent.
Under the guidance of his coaches, Mariyappan honed his skills and began competing in paraathletics events. His breakthrough came at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, where he won a gold medal in the men's high jump T42 category with a jump of 1.86 meters. This achievement brought him national recognition and made him a role model for aspiring athletes across India.
Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Mariyappan participated in subsequent international competitions. At the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo (held in 2021), he added another medal to his tally, securing a silver in the men's high jump T63 event. Beyond his athletic achievements, Mariyappan has been recognized for his contributions to sports and society. He has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri, further cementing his legacy as a celebrated athlete and an inspiration to many. His journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges with unwavering dedication.
