Get to know... Praveen Kumar

Paralympic athlete @Praveen_Paralympian is training for upcoming competitions, craving dal-roti, and wishing he could time-travel to the year 2036

Get to know... Praveen Kumar

Currently I am

Training for upcoming competitions.

High point in life

Winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics in the Men’s High Jump T64 event. The victory was a testament to all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I made throughout my career.

Low point in life

The 2019 Junior World Para Championship, when they changed my competition category from T42 to T44. It was disheartening, but I coped by training even harder. That experience made me more resilient.

On my playlist

Why Do I?, by Unknown Brain; My Heart Goes (La Di Da), by Becky Hill; Rapampam, by Minelli.

One thing I would never buy

A flat. I prefer the open space and comfort of a bungalow.

Today I’m craving

Comfort food, such as dal roti. It reminds me of home and it’s exactly what I need after a long training day.

Last thing I ordered online

Moolchand paranthas.

App I check before going to bed

Instagram.

Advice I’d give my 18-year-old self

Focus on your goals. Stay committed, avoid distractions, and trust the process.

My favourite subject in school

Sports. It was where I felt most alive and confident.

I’d swipe right on

Kindness.

My secret skill is

Volleyball. It has helped me develop teamwork, agility, and strategic thinking skills.

My favourite Sunday memory

The simple pleasure of being at home, spending time with loved ones, and recharging for the week ahead.

My plans for next Sunday

To sleep. Recovery and rest are crucial after hectic training days.

My most star-struck moment

The Paralympic victory celebration when the Ambani family invited the winners to Mumbai. I met Ranveer Singh, Akash Ambani, Nita Ambani, and several superstars. Being celebrated for my achievement was truly surreal and unforgettable.

My favourite bad habit

Sometimes, I procrastinate or take things easy, but I try to manage it as a small indulgence.

If I could travel back or forward in time, I’d

Travel to the year 2036. I’m curious to see how far technology and society have advanced and what the future holds for sports and para-athletes like myself.

The best thing about fame

Being recognised by so many people. It feels rewarding to inspire others.

The worst thing about fame

Managing public attention and expectations sometimes interrupts my focus and routine, which can be challenging.