Ramesh Shanmugam smiles after winning a gold medal in the Men’s 800m T53/T54 on the second day of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. “Once MS Dhoni retires, I will stop watching cricket,” he adds.

Ramesh, who hails from Mannathampatty, a “tiny and remote village” in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruchirappalli district, has long admired the former captain of the Indian cricket team and is excited for the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season to begin.

“Back in the day, I used to play cricket,” he said. I used to be a wicketkeeper and a quick runner. I really like watching cricket, particularly our thala, MS Dhoni; therefore, I’ve gone to a few matches,” Shanmugam told SAI Media.

According to the 30-year-old paraathlete, the cricketing icon has taught him many things, most notably how to maintain composure and discipline under pressure. Shanmugam has been moving up the wheelchair racing rankings in India by adhering to identical ideas.

Ramesh, who holds the national record in the men’s 800-meter T53/T54 event, took home two gold and one silver medal at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix only this year. To continue his rise, he earned two additional gold medals on Friday in the Men’s 800m T53/T54 and Men’s 100m T53/T54 events at KIPG 2025.

“I think my career is headed in the correct direction right now. In recent years, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs and the Sports Authority of India have done a great job of helping paraathletes. All of our fundamental necessities are met here at KIPG. He adds, “We are getting great lodging, the best way to travel, and great food options.”

Shanmugam, who was born into a farming family, lost both of his legs in a truck accident when he was eight years old. Being a member of a low-income household made it difficult for him to adjust to using a wheelchair. However, he was able to continue his study with the help of the government and municipal authorities.

“Throughout my life, I have encountered several challenges. I had a sense that I had to do something. The days just come and go. However, I want to establish a reputation for myself. I must establish my worth. Every day, I push myself to reach my objectives. “I can’t stop,” he declares.

After being drawn to parasports at a Trichy college, Shanmugam went on to get a B.Sc. in Biochemistry. After committing to para basketball, he went on to play for his country in eight international competitions. He chose to pursue paraathletics two years ago since he was unable to get much support in the sport. He quickly adjusted to the sport and began moving up the rankings after developing incredible speed throughout his para basketball career.

“Sports need more energy. Racing in a wheelchair keeps you moving all the time. It never fails to keep you energized. He explains, “I thought this was what I needed.”

The Tamil Nadu athlete is happy to make his family proud since they have given him a lot of support. The para-athlete has also benefited greatly from the support of his wife, who works for a private company.

“My folks are so thrilled right now. I took home the medal in the 2023 Khelo India Para Games. I’ve earned two gold medals this time. They are thrilled with my development. My wife and the rest of my family have never been strong supporters. I couldn’t have won a single gold without them,” he adds.

“They are enabling me to realize my aspirations.” He concluded by saying, “I want to be chosen for the Paralympics and win gold there to make my country proud.”