New Delhi, Aug 23 (IANS) Vishnu Vaghela from Gujarat is the captain of Indian blind football team. Though he hails from a rural background and lost his eyesight in childhood but that didn’t deter him from pursuing his dream.

He dared to dream big and has today carved a distinct identity for himself by leading the football team, at both national and international levels.

His achievements have made his family happy and ecstatic while the villagers in his hometown Banaskantha are taking pride in his accomplishments.

Vishnu faced many difficult circumstances but that didn’t let his passion for the game decline. His family also stood by him at every step.

Sharing his tumultuous journey, Vishnu Vaghela said, “I have travelled to 10 countries to play. I have also won the ‘Best Player’ title on two or three occasions. I play as a defender for the Indian team, while I play as a striker for the Gujarat team. I have also received the ‘Top Scorer’ award three times.”

Vishnu’s father Tejubhai Vaghela shared that his son went to multiple locations, and it was in Ahmedabad that Vishnu began playing football and received support from the villagers.

Since then, Vishnu has never looked back. He has played at the state level and also earned acclaim at the national level as well.

The Blind People’s Association (BPA) in Ahmedabad has played pivotal role in honing Vishnu’s skills.

With support of government and public, the BPA not only provided him with access to a sports ground but also facilitated superior training facilities.

Bhushan Punani, General Secretary of the BPA, said, “The organisation has state-of-the-art football ground in Naz village. A Premier League match has been held here for the second time. Today, thanks to Vishnu Vaghela’s courage, initiative, and determination, Gujarat has emerged as a leading state in the country for ‘Football for the Blind’.”

Vishnu serves as an inspiration to other differently-abled athletes in the state. He won the ‘Best Player’ award for his outstanding performance against Brazil at the BRICS Blind Football Tournament held in Moscow in 2025.

–IANS

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