Murlikant Petkar, born on November 1, 1944, in Maharashtra, India, is a revered para-athlete and war hero. He made history by becoming India’s first Paralympic gold medalist during the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany, setting a world record in the 50m freestyle swimming event. Despite being severely injured during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Petkar’s unwavering spirit led him to excel in various sports, earning him the Padma Shri in 2018. His incredible transformation from a soldier to a Paralympic champion serves as a beacon of inspiration to many.
Murlikant Petkar Biography
Murlikant Petkar, born on November 1, 1944, in Sangli, Maharashtra, is a renowned para-athlete and decorated war veteran. Currently 79 years old, his passion for sports, particularly boxing, began early in life. He joined the Indian Army and served in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME).
During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Petkar sustained life-altering injuries, which left him paraplegic. However, he refused to give up on his passion for sports. He transitioned from boxing to swimming and other para-sports. Petkar represented India in table tennis at the 1968 Summer Paralympics.
His most remarkable accomplishment came in the 1972 Summer Paralympics, where he won India’s first-ever Paralympic gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event, setting a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds. This victory was a historic milestone for Indian sports.
Apart from his success in swimming, Petkar also competed in javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw, making it to the finals in these events. He also claimed a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland.
After retiring from sports, Petkar worked at TELCO in Pune. His extraordinary achievements and inspiring journey earned him the Padma Shri in 2018.
Murlikant Petkar’s life is a powerful testament to resilience and persistence. His accomplishments continue to inspire athletes across the globe, proving that with determination, anything is possible.
Murlikant Petkar’s Age
As of 2024, Murlikant Petkar is 79 years old, having been born on November 1, 1944.
Murlikant Petkar’s Wife
Murlikant Petkar is married to Suman Petkar, who has supported him through the many challenges and triumphs of his life.
Murlikant Petkar’s Son
Murlikant Petkar has a son named Arjun Petkar.
Murlikant Petkar’s Net Worth
Murlikant Petkar’s net worth has not been made public. His main sources of income include his pension from the Indian Army and his career at TELCO in Pune.
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Murlikant Petkar’s Career
Murlikant Petkar’s career is a story of incredible perseverance. Born in Sangli, Maharashtra, on November 1, 1944, Petkar started his career by joining the Indian Army’s Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME). He was passionate about boxing, which he excelled at before his life took a drastic turn during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.
Petkar’s injuries from the war left him paraplegic. Nevertheless, his resolve to remain active in sports remained unshaken. He shifted from boxing to swimming and para-sports, competing in the 1968 Summer Paralympics, where he participated in table tennis.
His career reached its pinnacle during the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. He made history by winning India’s first Paralympic gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event, setting a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds. This achievement marked a major breakthrough for Indian sports.
In addition to swimming, Petkar excelled in javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw, reaching the finals in these disciplines. He also took home a gold medal from the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Following his retirement from competitive sports, Petkar worked for TELCO (now Tata Motors) in Pune, showing the same commitment to his post-athletic career. In 2018, his contributions to sports were recognized with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
Murlikant Petkar’s career is not just a reflection of his athletic prowess but also his ability to overcome adversity. His transformation from soldier to Paralympic champion continues to serve as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of perseverance and hard work.
Murlikant Petkar’s Family
Murlikant Petkar’s family has played an integral role in his journey, supporting him through the challenges he faced. He is married to Suman Petkar, who has been his steadfast companion through his recovery and sporting achievements. Their son, Arjun Petkar, has also drawn inspiration from his father’s accomplishments.
The Petkar family has maintained a quiet, supportive presence, staying away from the public eye while continuing to encourage Murlikant throughout his incredible journey from a soldier to an internationally acclaimed para-athlete.
Their unwavering support, particularly during his recovery from his war injuries, has been crucial in his transformation from a soldier to a Paralympic champion. This strong family foundation has undoubtedly contributed to his success and resilience.
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Murlikant Petkar: A Life of Perseverance and Achievement
- Birth: Murlikant Petkar was born on November 1, 1944, in Sangli, Maharashtra, India.
- Military Service: He served in the Indian Army’s Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME).
- War Injury: Petkar was critically injured during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, leaving him paraplegic.
- Paralympic Gold: He won India’s first Paralympic gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event at the 1972 Paralympics.
- World Record: Petkar set a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds in the 50m freestyle.
- Commonwealth Games: He also won a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland.
- Multi-Sport Talent: Petkar competed in javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw, showcasing his versatility.
- Post-Athletic Career: After his sports career, Petkar worked at TELCO (now Tata Motors) in Pune.
- Padma Shri: In 2018, he was awarded the Padma Shri for his outstanding contributions to sports.
- Family: Murlikant Petkar is married to Suman Petkar, and they have a son named Arjun.
- Boxing Beginnings: Before his war injury, Petkar was a talented boxer.
- Inspiration: Despite his injuries, Petkar’s persistence in para-sports is an example of triumph over adversity.
- Legacy: His life story continues to inspire countless athletes and remains a significant part of Indian sports history.
