From scratches to crown; Tarun's Inspiring Journey Overcoming Disability in Football

Tarun initially played hockey in disability competitions. However, his passion shifted to football, and for four years, he trained under national coach Prabhat Rahi, traveling 20 kilometers to Shivaji Ground for practice.

This is the inspiring story of Tarun Kumar, a young footballer from Madhya Pradesh. Born with physical challenges, Tarun couldn't walk or speak until he was two. After his father abandoned the family, he and his mother moved to Jabalpur to live with his grandfather. It was there that Tarun discovered football, a passion that transformed his life.

Tarun played a significant role in India's victory at the Gothia Cup during the Special Olympics in Sweden, on Tuesday. 

While speaking about Tarun’s hardships his mother said - “When Tarun was 2 years old, he couldn't walk, hear, or speak. His mental condition was weak. During this difficult time, his father abandoned him as well. After that, I took Tarun with me to my father's house (his grandfather's home). He was raised there, but the house was about 20 kilometers away from the city.”

Despite numerous challenges, Tarun's mother enrolled him in the Justice Tankha Memorial Rotary Institute for Special Children at the age of four. He gradually aced in academics and initially played hockey in disability competitions. However, his passion shifted to football, and for four years, he trained under national coach Prabhat Rahi, traveling 20 kilometers to Shivaji Ground for practice.

Tarun contributed significantly when India and Denmark locked in a tense 3-3 tie, Tarun stepped up to take a decisive penalty. In a moment of sheer determination and skill, he found the back of the net, raising the Indian flag high and securing a remarkable victory. His heroics not only won the game but also scribed his name in the hearts of his nation.

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