“In India, in 2019, we’re still talking about survival for people with disabilities. The conversation never goes beyond survival. After a polio attack at the age of 2, I have always used a wheelchair to move. I understand the challenge of proving yourself over and over again. In 2007, I started an NGO called ASTHA to support people with disabilities. During my research, I found that most of them opt for BA courses because they’re asked to choose something ‘easy’ and not a course of their choice. I wanted to provide a platform that allows their complete participation. I’m a Chartered Accountant. I try to work in the morning so I have the rest of the day dedicated to the tournaments and my NGO. During a brainstorming evening in 2016, Indian Wheelchair Tennis Tournament (IWTT) was founded. Wheelchair Tennis is a global sport but there was no trace of it in India until three years ago. It was a challenge to convince people that we need this!

There are no professional coaches for wheelchair tennis in India and players have to practice by themselves – that’s another challenge. When I started this tournament, I realised that there are few people who would come to support it. We still went ahead. I’ve seen so many players who participate for different reasons – recreation, career or overcoming their fears. This competition has given them a platform to explore a sport, to feel as strong and confident as anybody else. This is our second time in Hyderabad and we have three local players participating this year. We don’t have entry or ticket fees because the idea is to have as many people as possible to come and cheer for our players. We need the encouragement and support.

By 2022, I want India to be on the world map and be a part of Asian Para Games. That’s the ideal platform to prove ourselves.”

Humans of Hyderabad in Collaboration with Indian Wheel Chair Tennis Tour for CHARMINAR OPEN 2019 that will happen at the LB Stadium from 23rd to the 26th of October, 2019. Entry is open to everyone who would want to watch and learn about Wheelchair Tennis

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