PRAMOD BHAGAT
BADMINTON PLAYER
Where there is a will there is a way. Achievement comes from persistent perusal. The philosophy of standing apart and thinking on one’s own feet brings innovation and change.
In the life of Pramod Bhagat, all things negative combined to make positive strides. Despite being Polio diagnosed early on, he remained fascinated by badminton, and his attitude of not stopping before reaching perfection ranked him globally, the number one para badminton player and the first ever Indian to secure a gold in Paralympics.
Born in a remote village, Attabira of Bargarh, into a humble migrant family from Bihar, Pramod Bhagat has been a consistent performer for years. He has been a five times world champion and winner of numerous other international medals. The man who once could not afford a badminton racket, went on to bag 24
international Gold medals and a total of 46 medals till March 2020. His determined efforts made him the winner of the Arjuna Award, Biju Patnaik Sports Award, and the highest sporting honour of India- the Khel Ratna Award. Last but not the least, the Government of India honoured him with the prestigious Padma Shri Award in the year 2022.
He is now an inspiration for the thousands of differently abled sports persons, the beacon of hope for the poors, and an icon of possibilities and perfection for millions who have a fire but needs an ignition.
VARINDIA takes pride to honour this exemplary world champion as a Crown Jewels of Odisha.