PadmaShri Murlikant Petkar
India’s first Paralympic gold medallist
Chief Guest at Kokan Kala Mahotsav 2025, PadmaShri Murlikant Petkar stands as India’s first Paralympic gold medallist and a living example of courage. Born in Sangli, he served valiantly in the Indian Army before a wartime injury turned his path toward sports. At the 1972 Paralympics in Germany, he made history by winning gold and setting a world record in swimming—an achievement that placed India on the global stage. Honoured with the PadmaShri and Jeevangaurav Arjun Award, his inspiring journey continues to reflect resilience, patriotism, and an unwavering human spirit.

