World Para Athletics 2025 will be hosted in New Delhi, India, with the launch of mascot Viraaj and the official logo symbolizing para-athlete strength and inclusion. Know all key highlights for exam preparation.
India Unveils “Viraaj” Mascot & Official Logo for 2025 World Para Athletics Championships
Introduction
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) revealed its official logo and mascot, Viraaj, for the upcoming World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, scheduled from 27 September to 5 October 2025. Coinciding with the 100-day countdown, the event took place on 20 June 2025 at The Ashok Hotel, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey toward hosting its largest-ever para-sporting spectacle
Meet the Mascot: Viraaj
Viraaj is a young, spirited elephant character equipped with a blade prosthesis, symbolizing resilience, strength, and optimism. With vivid hues and dynamic imagery, Viraaj embodies the unyielding spirit of para-athletes
Significance of the Logo
The logo reflects India’s ancient heritage, combining traditional motifs with contemporary design. It captures the spirit of para-athletics and reflects the energy of New Delhi, the host city
Distinguished Guests at the Launch
Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta graced the event as Chief Guest, expressing pride in hosting this landmark global event. Vanathi Srinivasan, MLA and PCI Patron, Kangana Ranaut (Brand Ambassador & MP), Ashish Sood (Delhi Education Minister), Hari Ranjan Rao (Secretary, Sports, MYAS), and Paul Fitzgerald (Head, World Para Athletics) were all present
Voices of Inspiration
- Rekha Gupta: Hailed New Delhi 2025 as “a global event that celebrates courage, ability, and human potential,” saying the logo and mascot capture “the soul of India and the power of para sport”
- Kangana Ranaut: Stated, “It’s not just a mascot — it’s a message of confidence, strength, and representation,” celebrating its role in promoting resilience
- Vanathi Srinivasan: Declared the unveiling as a “visual and emotional celebration” bringing India closer to making history
- Paul Fitzgerald: Commended PCI’s vision and energy, labeling ND-2025 as “one of the most engaging and inclusive championships ever”
- Devendra Jhajharia: PCI President, emphasized how the logo and mascot encapsulate the spirit of para-athletes: “proud, powerful, and full of possibility”
Global Reach
More than 100 countries are expected to take part — making it the largest-ever World Para Athletics event in India
Why This News Is Important
Empowering Para-Sport in India
Hosting the World Para Athletics Championships positions India prominently within the global para-sport landscape. The unveiling of Viraaj and the logo amplifies awareness, promoting inclusivity and championing the spirit of differently-abled athletes.
Link to Government Exams Preparation
This event aligns with Polity and Governance sections under government exams, highlighting India’s sports-oriented socio-cultural policies. Students should be familiar with national initiatives that encourage sports across all communities. Insights into this event aid aspirants for UPSC, State PSCs, Staff Selection, Bank PO, and Railway exams, particularly in current affairs, sports and social inclusion segments.
Boosting International Image
The event augments India’s global reputation in hosting major sporting events, reinforcing priorities in infrastructural development, policy-making, and cultural diplomacy pertinent to exam questions on India’s global standing.
Inspiration for Aspirants
The mascot represents ideal exam qualities—resilience, courage, and determination—aligning with competencies expected of administrative and defense officers.
Historical Context
1. Para-Sport in India
India’s involvement in para-athletics dates back to the first Summer Paralympics in 1968, marking decades of growth and achievement. Over the years, Indian para-athletes like Devendra Jhajharia and Deepa Malik have brought home Paralympic medals, inspiring institutional support
2. World Para Athletics Championships
First held in Berlin in 1994, the Championships became biennial after 2011, merging into the lead-up for Paralympic representation. The upcoming event in New Delhi is the 12th edition, following previous Asian hosts Doha (2015), Dubai (2019), and Kobe (2024)
3. National-Level Supports
The newly-laid Mondotrack at JLN Stadium, alongside administrative backing from MYAS, validates India’s growing sports infrastructure and commitment to embracing differently-abled athletes
Key Takeaways from “Viraaj – India’s Para-Athletics Mascot”
| # | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Viraaj is the elephant mascot featuring a blade prosthesis, symbolizing strength and resilience. |
| 2 | The logo blends India’s cultural heritage with the dynamic spirit of para-athletics and New Delhi’s vibrancy. |
| 3 | The 100-day countdown launch took place on 20 June 2025 at The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi. |
| 4 | Over 100 countries will participate, making it India’s largest-ever para-athletics event. |
| 5 | High-profile dignitaries including Rekha Gupta, Kangana Ranaut, Paul Fitzgerald, and Devendra Jhajharia highlighted India’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the name of the mascot for the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships?
The mascot is named Viraaj, a young elephant with a blade prosthesis symbolizing strength and resilience.
2. When and where will the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships be held?
The event will be hosted in New Delhi, India from 27 September to 5 October 2025.
3. Who launched the logo and mascot of the event?
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) unveiled the logo and mascot during a ceremony held on 20 June 2025.
4. What is the significance of the event for India?
It will be the largest para-sporting event hosted by India and will feature athletes from over 100 countries, enhancing India’s global sporting profile.
5. Why is this event important for exam aspirants?
This topic is relevant for sections like Current Affairs, Indian Polity, Social Justice, and Sports Development Policies, especially in UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and defence exams.
6. Who are some of the key figures associated with this event?
Prominent figures include Kangana Ranaut (MP & Brand Ambassador), Rekha Gupta (Delhi CM), Devendra Jhajharia (PCI President), and Paul Fitzgerald (World Para Athletics Head).
Some Important Current Affairs Links
