Hyderabad, Mar 7 (TNT): Nearly 700 para-badminton players, including about 200 wheelchair athletes, are participating in the 7th Senior National Para Badminton Championship 2026, which began here on Saturday.
The four-day championship, being held from March 7 to 10 at the Heartfulness Gopichand Badminton Academy at Kanha Shanti Vanam, outskirts of Hyderabad, has brought together para-athletes from across the country, including several national champions and Paralympic medalists.
Athletes are competing in multiple categories, showcasing their skills and determination.
The qualification rounds and main draw matches will continue until March 9, while the finals will be held on March 10.
The event aims to provide a platform for para-athletes to demonstrate their abilities and gain national recognition while strengthening India’s para-sports ecosystem.
The opening ceremony was attended by officials of the Badminton Association of India, including its General Secretary Sanjay Mishra and Vice Chairman of Para Badminton Prabhakar Rao.
Speaking on the occasion, Mishra said the Heartfulness Gopichand Badminton Academy offers world-class facilities for para-athletes and expressed optimism about the future of para badminton in India.
Chief National Coach of the Indian badminton team Pullela Gopichand said the championship features several top players who have won Olympic and World Championship medals and provides an opportunity for young athletes to draw inspiration from them.
Kamlesh D. Patel, also known as Daaji and Global Guide of Heartfulness, said the determination and courage of para-athletes inspire everyone and reflect the strength of the human spirit.
The championship will conclude with the finals on March 10.
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