Ramesh Shanmugam: Aiming to Follow MS Dhoni's Legacy in Para Athletics

New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) “Once MS Dhoni retires, I will stop watching cricket,” Ramesh Shanmugam expresses with a grin after securing a gold medal in the Men’s 800m T53/T54 on the second day of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Hailing from a small and remote village known as Mannathampatty in the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, Ramesh has long revered the former captain of the Indian cricket team and is keenly anticipating the start of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

“I used to engage in cricket during my younger days. I was quick on my feet and also played as a wicketkeeper. I have attended numerous cricket matches because I truly love the sport, particularly our thala MS Dhoni,” Shanmugam shared with SAI Media.

The 30-year-old para athlete feels that the cricket star has imparted valuable lessons, especially regarding how to stay calm, composed, and disciplined during challenging times. Adhering to similar principles, Shanmugam has been climbing the ranks in wheelchair racing within India.

This year, Ramesh, a national record holder in the Men’s 800m T53/T54, clinched two gold medals and one silver medal at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix. On Friday, he added two additional gold medals in the Men’s 800m T53/T54 and Men’s 100m T53/T54 at KIPG 2025, continuing his upward trajectory.

“I feel I am on the right path in my career now. The Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs have made significant strides in supporting para athletes. Here at KIPG, all our fundamental needs are well taken care of. We are provided with excellent accommodation, optimal travel arrangements, and great food options,” he stated.

Born into a farming family, Ramesh faced a life-altering event at the age of eight when a lorry accident resulted in him losing both of his legs. Adapting to life in a wheelchair was challenging, particularly due to his family's limited financial resources. However, assistance from local authorities and government initiatives enabled him to continue his education.

“I have encountered numerous challenges in my life. I felt a pressing need to achieve something significant. Each day passes, yet I have the ambition to establish my name. I must prove myself, and I motivate myself daily to reach my aspirations. I cannot afford to stop,” he shared.

Shanmugam pursued a B.Sc. in Bio Chemistry at a college in Trichy, where he was drawn towards para sports. He immersed himself in para basketball and represented the national team in eight international competitions. However, due to a lack of support in that sport, he transitioned to para athletics two years ago. Having developed considerable speed during his para basketball journey, he seamlessly adapted to athletics and began ascending the ranks.

“Athletics is far more energetic. When racing in a wheelchair, you are constantly in motion, which keeps you energized. I felt this was what I needed,” he remarked.

The athlete from Tamil Nadu has received substantial backing from his family, and making them proud brings him immense joy. His wife, who works in a private company, has also been a significant source of strength for him.

“My parents are now very pleased. In the 2023 Khelo India Para Games, I earned bronze. This time, I have secured two gold medals. They are thrilled with my progress. My family has always supported me, including my wife. Without them, I could not have achieved any of these medals,” he concluded.

“They are enabling me to pursue my dreams. I aspire to be selected for the Paralympics and secure a gold medal there to make my country proud,” he added.