Avani Lekhara India’s first woman double medal winner at the Paralympics recently addressed a group of visually challenged students during the unique school-visit campaign, Meet The Champions, held in New Delhi’s Shaheed Hemu Kalani Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya on Monday.
The shooter who created her own legacy in what was her debut Paralympics was welcomed with cheers and applause by the students from the South-East District of New Delhi for an adjacent interaction on Santulit Aahar (balanced diet), fitness and sports.
According to an official release, Avani Lekhara said, “It is very likely to come across ridiculous comments and criticism from people. They may think that you cannot achieve something you want but if you keep at it, one day you will excel and they will see that too.”
Taking forward the programme with various interesting stories, videos and questions with the students, 20-year-old Avani shared her childhood memories related to her diet, fitness routine and academics.
“I was very choosy about food and fast food has been my favourite. But once I started having a balanced diet I realised that I felt more energetic and my game improved. If you eat well, no matter what you do, whether you play sport or study you will do it better and you will be in a happier state of mind,” said Avani.
She also stressed the importance of having a good group of friends and supportive parents in life and said, “When you have good friends and supportive parents, it becomes easier for one to overcome challenges of life and pursue the goal. As students, it is your duty to support one another. Don’t make fun of those around you if they are weak in something, instead help them.”
Avani also carried the rifle that earned her a gold medal at the Paralympics, and while showing it off, she discussed its functions and technicalities during the show. This one-of-a-kind initiative is being organised jointly by the Ministries of Youth Affairs and Sports and Education as part of the government’s ‘Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.