New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu’s Ramesh Shanguman provided an impressive start for his state as the track and field events commenced on Day 2 of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 here on Friday. A former basketball player, Shanguman from Chennai secured the inaugural gold medal of the Games in the men's 800m T53/T54 category.

As of this moment, a total of 31 gold medals have been awarded, with Tamil Nadu claiming eight of them. Maharashtra followed with five golds, while Haryana stood third with four golds. On Friday, 44 finals across various athletic categories were on the agenda.

Hailing from a farming background in Mannathampatty village, Tiruchirappalli, Shanguman faced a life-altering incident when he lost his legs in a lorry accident at merely eight years old. Nevertheless, he refused to allow this adversity to deter him from pursuing sports, initially participating in para basketball before transitioning to wheelchair racing.

In an interview with SAI Media regarding his triumph at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shanguman expressed, "I have encountered numerous challenges throughout my life. I aim to achieve significant milestones. Each day passes by, yet my ambition to create a name for myself persists. I must validate my existence. I inspire myself daily. My parents are incredibly proud. In the inaugural KIPG in 2023, I secured a bronze medal, and this time, I’ve captured gold. My family has been my backbone; without their support, I wouldn’t have achieved this medal.”

Simultaneously, Day 2 of the para badminton events unfolded at the Indira Gandhi Stadium. The day was filled with thrilling matches featuring Paris Paralympian Nitesh Kumar and Tokyo Paralympics Gold medallist Krishna Nagar, who both showcased their prowess.

Paris 2024 gold medalist Nitesh Kumar advanced to the finals in his category, while Krishna Nagar reached the semifinals. Other prominent badminton competitors, Nithya Sre and Palal Kohli, also progressed in their respective divisions.