‘His feet are his pillars’: Nepal para swimmer gives all for Asian glory

Harka Man Gharti trains daily in Nepal's capital Kathmandu to fulfill a dream that transcends the pool's 25 metres. Having lost his arms in an electrocution accident, the 21-year-old relies on his powerful legs and torso to propel himself through the water. Alongside three other disabled swimmers, Gharti is representing Nepal at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Japan, aiming for a medal despite the country's limited resources.

For Gharti, swimming goes beyond competition; it's a pathway to personal growth and inspiration. A decade after his accident, he now dreams of becoming the first Nepali athlete to win a medal at the Asian Para Games, a feat not yet achieved by any able-bodied athletes. His coach, Subha Shrestha, praises his relentless dedication, noting that his feet have become his pillars and his legs his power.

Gharti's aspirations extend beyond sport, as he plans to study computer science, navigating a computer using his toes. His story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Nepali athletes, who often go into competitions with modest expectations but strive to make their mark on the world stage.