Absolutely thrilled, says Prabhu

If ever one looked for an epitome of grit and resilience in the face of insurmountable obstacles, the search will end in the ever-smiling Boniface Prabhu, India’s wheelchair tennis ace. 

Life has finally come full circle for the 41-year-old Bangalorean with the government deciding to bestow upon him the prestigious Padma Shri award for his achievements in a 20-year period. 

“I almost had tears in my eyes, all my hard work and struggle has finally borne fruit and I am absolutely thrilled,’’ Prabhu added. 

A wrong lumbar puncture way back in 1976, when he was four years old, at a city hospital left him partially disabled but Prabhu fought against all odds making his entry into sport in 1994.  “Since 1994 it has been a big struggle, today I want to thank all my sponsors, well-wishers, individuals and the media in particular for highlighting my achievements,’’ the father of two added. 

Prabhu dedicated the honour to his wife and said it was the perfect birthday present for her in advance. “I would like to dedicate the award to my wife, who celebrates her birthday on the January 27,’’ he added. 

With the Padma Shri in his kitty, Prabhu felt his responsibilities have increased along with the expectations. 

“I am more than 100 percent positive that I can return with a medal at the 2016 Paralympics in Rio provided the Paralympic Committee allows me to compete,’’ Prabhu explained.