Avani Lekhara’s journey is a remarkable one, marked by resilience and a deep passion for sport. Born on November 8, 2001, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Avani’s life changed dramatically when she was just 11 years old. In 2012, a car accident left her with complete paraplegia. While this could have been a moment of defeat, it instead became the turning point in her life.
Her father, recognising the importance of keeping her engaged, encouraged her to explore sports. She initially tried archery, but it was in shooting that she found her true calling. She began training in shooting in 2015, inspired by former Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra. Her dedication to the sport quickly became evident as she honed her skills with determination and focus.
Avani’s hard work began to pay off, and she soon made a name for herself in the world of shooting. She became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal, achieving this historic feat at the 2020 Summer Paralympics. Competing in the 10m Air Rifle standing SH1 event, Avani not only won gold but also set a new Paralympic record with a score of 249.6 points, tying the world record.
Her achievements didn’t stop there. Avani also secured a bronze medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event at the same Paralympics, making her the first Indian woman to win multiple medals in a single Paralympic Games. These accomplishments earned her widespread recognition, including the Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honour.
Balancing her sporting career with academics, Avani is currently studying law at Rajasthan University. Recognising her contributions, the Government of Rajasthan appointed her as an Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF), a role that highlights her importance not just as an athlete, but as an inspiration to many.
Avani’s story is proof of her inner strength and spirit. From a young girl, who faced a life-altering accident to becoming one of India’s most celebrated Paralympians, Avani has shown that with the right mindset and support, it’s possible to overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.