Paralympic Success Rally -Vijayotsava Sabha


The historic "Paralympic Victory Rally and Massive Public Meeting" stood as a powerful testament to the self-confidence and indomitable talent of persons with disabilities. Organized by the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD INDIA), this magnificent event took place on September 18, 2016, in the heart of Hyderabad. It was a grand tribute to the para-athletes who brought international glory to India by raising the national flag high at the Rio Paralympics. Under the visionary leadership of Thudum Rajender, National President of NPRD INDIA, the program was conducted with immense grandeur, filling the entire disability community with pride.

This monumental journey commenced with an emotionally charged public meeting at People's Plaza, Necklace Road. In a stirring display of unity, hundreds of persons with disabilities, proudly carrying the National Flag, marched in a victory rally from People's Plaza to the Sundarayya Vignana Kendram in Bagh Lingampally, inspiring every citizen along the way. The Chief Guest, India's Chief National Badminton Coach Pullela Gopichand, officially flagged off the rally. He lauded the extraordinary feats of Paralympic medalists Mariyappan Thangavelu, Devendra Jhajharia, Deepa Malik, and Varun Singh Bhati. From the dais, he delivered a profound message: "Physical disability is a constraint only for the body, not for the soul that aspires to fly high."

The event saw strong solidarity from Paralympic Association leaders Naresh Yadav and B. Anjaneyulu. They were joined by prominent figures including Patan P.Umar Khan, Chairman, Helen Keller Educational Institutions), Koteswara Rao (Former Chairman, Vikalangula Corporation), and NPDO Presidents Srinivasulu and Anjan Reddy. Alongside them, NPRD INDIA National Vice-Presidents Gajje Paidy Kumar and State President Dainampalli Mallikarjun, along with several other leaders of disability organizations, paid a respectful tribute to the prowess of the athletes. The sight of hundreds of disabled youth on three-wheeled motorcycles, roaring through the streets with the tricolor in hand, vividly demonstrated their immense strength and potential to society.

During the convention, the leadership placed a demand before the government. They called for the immediate formulation of a "Special Sports Policy" designed specifically to identify, nurture, and elevate the skills of para-athletes to a global standard. They asserted that beyond mere felicitations, the government must ensure permanent equal opportunities, social dignity, and special incentives for persons with disabilities in the fields of education, employment, and sports. This historic assembly at People's Plaza remains an unforgettable milestone in the ongoing struggle for the empowerment, self-respect, and fundamental rights of the disability community

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