“Focus. Breathe. Release.” These words run through Jai Sai’s mind as he positions his final throw at the 6th National Para Boccia Championship at Chitkara University, Punjab. Months of practice and unwavering dedication have all led to this moment. Minutes later, he’s holding his first national silver medal.
Today, at 26, this Para Boccia player from Bengaluru continues to be a powerhouse of positive energy and determination.
Jai Sai’s journey into sports began at the Mathru Foundation, where, at the age of ten, he participated in events commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. “It was thrilling to see children with disabilities come together and compete wholeheartedly. I was one of them,” Jai recalls. Inspired by Dr. Malathi Krishnamurthy Holla, an international Para athlete and one of the Foundation’s co-founders, he discovered his passion for sports. A key turning point came during the COVID-19 lockdown, when his coach, P. Kumaraswamy, encouraged him to try Boccia, a decision that changed his life.
Jai continues to push boundaries in sports, winning a bronze medal at the 9th National Boccia Championship (Visakhapatnam). He was also part of the Indian team at the 9th Cairo World Boccia Challenger in Egypt, where they made history by winning India’s first-ever silver medal in the competition. “CBM India’s support has been instrumental in my journey. The team’s backing not only sustains my sports journey but also empowers me to focus wholeheartedly on the game, free from worries,” he says.
Jai also explored his creative side by acting in Preethiya Kanasu, a short film close to his heart, launched by Mega Star Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar. Alongside his athletic pursuits, Jai has recently begun working as a Terminal Operations Officer at the Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. Despite a demanding schedule of early morning and night shifts, he carves out time for daily practice.
Jai’s message to everybody is simple.
We are all on the same racetrack, striving to reach the finish line. By extending even a small gesture of support, you can provide immense confidence and comfort to someone
Jai’s ultimate dream is to keep representing India on the international stage and bring pride to his family and country.
