India Unveils ‘Viraaj’ Mascot & Logo for World Para Athletics Championships 2025
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🐘 Meet Viraaj: Symbol of Strength and Hope
On 20 June 2025, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) revealed Viraaj, a vibrant young elephant equipped with a blade prosthesis, embodying optimism, courage, and resilience—core values of para-athletes worldwide. The mascot was launched alongside an official, eye-catching logo that blends India’s rich cultural heritage with the dynamic spirit of Para athletics and the bustling energy of New Delhi.
🎉 The Grand 100-Day Countdown Kickoff
The reveal event marked exactly 100 days to go until the championships, scheduled from 27 September to 5 October 2025, and took place at The Ashok Hotel in New Delhi. Key dignitaries in attendance included:
- Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi
- Vanathi Srinivasan, MLA and Chief Patron of PCI
- Kangana Ranaut, Bollywood actor and Brand Ambassador
- Ashish Sood, Delhi’s Education Minister
- Hari Ranjan Rao, Secretary (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
- Paul Fitzgerald, Head of World Para Athletics, among others
✨ Voices of Pride and Purpose
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasised Delhi’s honour in hosting “a global event that celebrates courage, ability, and human potential,” praising how the logo and mascot reflect “the soul of India and the power of para sport” .
Kangana Ranaut described Viraaj as “not just a mascot, a message of confidence, strength, and representation,” applauding its role in shining a light on resilience .
Vanathi Srinivasan highlighted the emotional impact of the launch, stating the reveal brought the nation closer to history with pride and purpose .
Paul Fitzgerald hailed New Delhi 2025 as “one of the most engaging and inclusive championships ever,” adding that India’s energy and PCI’s vision are inspiring .
PCI President Devendra Jhajharia expressed that the mascot and logo represent “every para athlete—proud, powerful, and full of possibility” .
🌍 A Global Stage for Inclusive Excellence
Scheduled to feature participants from over 100 countries, the New Delhi championship will be the largest Para athletics event ever hosted in India. The combination of a culturally rich logo and a mascot rooted in resilience sets a vibrant tone for what promises to be a historic, inclusive celebration of athletic excellence and human spirit.
The launch of Viraaj and the official logo marks a stirring moment in India’s para-sport journey—an embodiment of athletic grit and national pride. As the 100-day countdown begins, the mascot’s powerful symbolism and passionate endorsements from leaders, athletes, and celebrities alike underscore the championships’ mission: to champion courage, diversity, and unity on the global stage.
