Murlikant Petkar, born on November 1, 1944, in Maharashtra, India, is a celebrated para-athlete and war hero. He made history by winning India’s first Paralympic gold medal in the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany, setting a world record in the 50m freestyle swimming event. Despite sustaining severe injuries during the 1965 war, Petkar’s resilience and determination led him to excel in multiple sports, earning him the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2018. His inspiring journey from a soldier to a Paralympic champion continues to motivate many around the world.
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Murlikant Petkant Biography
Murlikant Petkar, born on November 1, 1944, in Sangli, Maharashtra, India, is a renowned para-athlete and war hero. He is 79 years old. Petkar’s early life was marked by a passion for sports, especially boxing. He joined the Indian Army and served in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME).
During the 1965 war against Pakistan, Petkar sustained severe injuries, leaving him paraplegic. Despite this, he did not give up on sports. He switched from boxing to swimming and other para-sports. His determination led him to participate in the 1968 Summer Paralympics, where he competed in table tennis.
Petkar’s most significant achievement came in the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. He won India’s first Paralympic gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event, setting a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds. This victory was a milestone for Indian sports.
In addition to swimming, Petkar excelled in javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw, reaching the finals in these events. He also won a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland.
After his sports career, Petkar worked at TELCO in Pune. His contributions to sports and his inspiring journey earned him the Padma Shri award in 2018.
Murlikant Petkar’s story is one of resilience and triumph. His achievements continue to inspire many, proving that determination can overcome any obstacle.
Murlikant Petkant Age
Murlikant Petkar was born on November 1, 1944. As of 2024, Murlikant Petkar’s age is 79 years.
Murlikant Petkant Wife
Murlikant Petkar’s wife is named Suman Petkar.
Murlikant Petkant Son
Murlikant Petkar’s son is named Arjun Petkar.
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Murlikant Petkant Net Worth
Murlikant Petkar’s net worth is not publicly disclosed. His primary source of income includes his pension from the Indian Army and his work at TELCO in Pune.
Murlikant Petkant Career
Murlikant Petkar’s career is a testament to resilience and determination. Born in Sangli, Maharashtra, on November 1, 1944, Petkar initially pursued a career in the Indian Army, joining the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME). His early career was marked by his passion for boxing, a sport in which he excelled until a life-changing event during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.
In the war, Petkar sustained severe injuries that left him paraplegic. This could have ended his athletic pursuits, but Petkar’s indomitable spirit led him to adapt and overcome. He transitioned from boxing to swimming and other para-sports, demonstrating remarkable versatility and determination.
Petkar’s breakthrough came at the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. Competing in the 50m freestyle swimming event, he not only won India’s first Paralympic gold medal but also set a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds. This achievement was a historic moment for Indian sports, highlighting Petkar’s exceptional talent and perseverance.
Beyond swimming, Petkar also competed in javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw, showcasing his diverse athletic skills. He reached the finals in these events, further cementing his status as a versatile and accomplished para-athlete. Additionally, he won a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland, adding to his impressive list of accolades.
After retiring from competitive sports, Petkar continued to contribute to society by working at TELCO (now Tata Motors) in Pune. His career at TELCO was marked by the same dedication and hard work that defined his athletic endeavors. In recognition of his contributions to sports and his inspiring journey, Petkar was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 2018.
Murlikant Petkar’s career is not just a story of athletic success but also one of incredible resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. His journey from a soldier to a Paralympic champion continues to inspire many, proving that with determination and hard work, one can triumph over any obstacle.
Murlikant Petkant Family
Murlikant Petkar’s family has been a significant source of support throughout his life and career. He is married to Suman Petkar, who has stood by him through his many challenges and triumphs. Their partnership has been a cornerstone of his resilience and success.
The couple has a son named Arjun Petkar. Arjun has been inspired by his father’s incredible journey and achievements. The Petkar family has maintained a low profile, focusing on their personal lives and supporting each other through various endeavors.
Murlikant Petkar’s family played a crucial role during his recovery and transition from a soldier to a celebrated para-athlete. Their unwavering support and encouragement helped him overcome the physical and emotional challenges he faced after his injuries in the 1965 war. This strong family bond has been instrumental in Petkar’s ability to achieve remarkable success in his sports career and beyond.
The Petkar family’s story is one of unity, resilience, and mutual support, reflecting the values that have driven Murlikant Petkar to become an inspirational figure in Indian sports history.
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Murlikant Petkant Wikipedia
- 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 severely injured during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, resulting in paraplegia.
- Paralympic Gold: He won India’s first Paralympic gold medal in the 50m freestyle swimming event in 1972.
- World Record: Petkar set a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds in the 50m freestyle.
- Commonwealth Games: He won a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh.
- Multi-Sport Athlete: Petkar competed in swimming, javelin, slalom, and precision javelin throw.
- Career at TELCO: After sports, he worked at TELCO (now Tata Motors) in Pune.
- Padma Shri: He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2018 for his contributions to sports.
- Family: Murlikant Petkar is married to Suman Petkar.
- Son: His son is named Arjun Petkar.
- Early Sports: Initially, Petkar excelled in boxing before his injury.
- Resilience: Despite his injuries, he transitioned to para-sports and achieved great success.
- Inspiration: Petkar’s journey continues to inspire many aspiring athletes.
- Legacy: He remains a celebrated figure in Indian sports history.
