Khelo India Para Games 2025 Sparkles with Star-Packed Para Badminton Action on Day 1
Nitesh Kumar, Krishna Nagar, and Manisha Ramdass Lead the Charge as Tournament Kicks Off in New Delhi
BNH NETWORK
New Delhi - The Khelo India Para Games 2025 (KIPG 2025) kicked off with a spectacular start as the spotlight turned to para badminton at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi. The opening day was marked by high-energy performances from some of India's most decorated para-athletes, including Nitesh Kumar, Krishna Nagar, and Manisha Ramdass. Their participation brought a sense of anticipation and excitement, signaling the beginning of a week filled with intense sporting action.
Krishna Nagar Leads the Charge
Krishna Nagar, the Tokyo Paralympic Gold Medalist, kicked off the proceedings with a dominant performance. Nagar easily won his Round of 16 match against Bonta Goutham Narasimhudu, securing a spot in the quarter-finals with a 21-9, 21-15 victory. The win showcased his exceptional skills, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling competition in the coming days.
Nitesh Kumar’s Consistent Dominance
Haryana's Nitesh Kumar, the 2024 Paralympic Gold Medalist, followed up with a stellar display of his own. Nitesh defeated Hemant Kumar Thakur 21-6, 21-11 in straight sets, advancing smoothly to the next round. With his win, Nitesh reaffirmed his position as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Reflecting on his participation, Nitesh emphasized the importance of the Khelo India Para Games, saying, "This tournament allows me to contribute to the sport that has given me so much. It’s not just about success but also about growing my confidence and skills beyond sport."
Manisha Ramdass Shines Bright in Quarterfinals
Later in the day, Manisha Ramdass, the 2024 Paralympic Bronze Medalist, delivered a commanding performance in her quarter-final match against Vaishali Nilesh Patel. Ramdass won with ease, securing a 21-6, 21-5 victory, and continuing her strong form in the tournament. Her win was a part of a series of impressive results that kept the crowd energized throughout the day.
Key Results (Till 7:30 PM):
- Krishna Nagar defeated Bonta Goutham Narasimhudu 21-9, 21-15 in MS SH 6
- Manoj Sarkar defeated Bittu Kumar 21-11, 21-4 in MS SL 3
- Nitesh Kumar defeated Hemant Kumar Thakur 21-6, 21-11 in MS SL 3
- Manisha Ramdass defeated Vaishali Nilesh Patel 21-6, 21-5 in WS SU 5
A Day of Unstoppable Action
With 69 matches played throughout the day, the badminton action provided non-stop thrills for the audience. The day’s intensity underscored the level of competition at the Khelo India Para Games, where para-athletes are making their mark on the national stage.
Khelo India: Empowering Para-Athletes Across India
The Khelo India Para Games is part of the larger Khelo India mission, which aims to empower and uplift young athletes, particularly those with disabilities. This initiative creates opportunities for para-athletes to showcase their talents, while also raising awareness about the importance of inclusivity in sports. The Khelo India Para Games, now in its second edition, has seen significant growth, with more disciplines, athletes, and venues, providing a much-needed platform for para-athletes to shine.
