“Blind Chess Champion and Multitalented Darpan Irani Inspires with Triumph at 4th Asian Para Games”
Vadodara’s very own, Darpan Irani, has emerged as a shining star at the 4th Asian Para Games, clinching two gold medals in the Para Chess competition’s Men’s Division B-1 category. His triumphant return to Vadodara was marked by a grand welcome at the airport, where he expressed his joy at bringing pride to the nation. Notably, Darpan’s incredible journey, which began with losing his eyesight at the tender age of 3 in 1994, has been nothing short of inspirational.
Facing adversity with unwavering determination, Darpan’s family took a unique stance by insisting on his education in a regular school alongside his peers, rather than enrolling him in a special school. To facilitate his learning, Darpan used screen reading software to take his exams on a computer, achieving remarkable results and consistently ranking among the top three students in his class. His academic prowess was further demonstrated in 2015 when he received an offer for an MBA from IIM Lucknow, which he gracefully declined to pursue his true passions—CA (Chartered Accountancy) and chess.
Today, Darpan stands as the highest-rated chess player in Asia, boasting an impressive Elo rating of 2124. His talents extend beyond the chessboard, as he has mastered tabla, harmonium, and classical music. He has even attained a black belt in karate. Darpan’s commitment to excellence has been evident throughout his life, making him an exemplary figure of determination and achievement.
Following his triumph at the 4th Asian Para Games, Darpan Irani received a hero’s welcome at Vadodara Airport, where he shared his sentiments, saying, “I am immensely honored by the reception I received today at Vadodara Airport. Bringing home two gold medals for my country fills me with pride and happiness. My family has been my unwavering support on this journey, and my teachers have played an instrumental role. I aspire to represent India in chess at the Olympics in the future and aim to achieve the title of grandmaster in chess.”
Darpan Irani’s incredible journey is a testament to his indomitable spirit and determination to conquer life’s challenges, emerging victorious and inspiring others along the way.
