KIPG 2025: A Unique Tale of Sports and Love – Swaroop and Romi Ready to Shine at the Paralympics
New Delhi: When sports and love go hand in hand, the results can be historic. At the Paris Olympics 2024, Tara Davis won gold in the long jump, and when her husband, Hunter Woodhall, clinched gold in the T62 400m race at the Paralympics, it was a testament to their mutual inspiration. Similarly, the story of Swaroop and Romi Unhalkar beautifully exemplifies the unique blend of sports and love.
Having already competed twice in the Paralympics, Swaroop secured a gold medal in the men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 event at the Khelo India Para Games 2025. His wife, Romi Unhalkar, participated in the women’s R2 – Air Rifle Standing SH1 event, where she finished fourth in the qualifiers and secured the eighth position in the final.
Journey from Sports to Marriage
The couple first met in Pune around 2021-22 through a mutual friend. Initially, their bond was purely professional, but it gradually blossomed into a deeper relationship. After their marriage, Romi also took up shooting, and for the past three years, the duo has been competing together and winning medals for the country.
Swaroop’s journey has been filled with struggles. He contracted polio at a young age, making access to shooting ranges difficult. His family’s financial situation did not allow him to purchase his own rifle and kit. However, his coach provided him with a 10-year-old rifle in 2012, which helped him start competing, and soon, he gained recognition at the national and international levels.
Swaroop Becomes Maharashtra’s First Para Shooter
Swaroop became Maharashtra’s first para shooter to win a national-level medal and qualify for international competitions. His dedication was recognized when he was honored with Maharashtra’s prestigious Chhatrapati Award, the state’s highest sports honor. Swaroop recalls, “After that, everyone’s perspective changed. Now, my family and community say, ‘We don’t need anything, just keep playing.’”
When he began his journey in 2008, para athletes were not taken seriously in India. But Swaroop has played a significant role in changing that mindset.
Romi Aspires to Compete at the Paralympics
Romi takes immense pride in her husband’s achievements. She says, “Swaroop is very patient and remains calm in every situation. That inspires me a lot. I feel fortunate to have him by my side.”
At the Khelo India Para Games, Swaroop also competed in the Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 event, finishing eighth, and secured the fifth position in the R6 – 50m Rifle Prone Mixed SH1 event.
Now, the couple is aiming for their next big goal. In 2025, they will participate together for the first time in an international competition at the WSPS World Cup in South Korea.