Nagpur, 07 Apr (HS): In an extraordinary display of

courage and determination Nagpur 17-year-old visually impaired swimmer, Ishwari

Pande successfully crossed the Palk Strait. Iswhari wrote a history to become

the first blind swimmer to cross the Palk Strait. She is completely blind since

birth.

Ishwari plunged into the sea at Urmalai Point near

Talaimannar in Sri Lanka at 4 am and reached Arichalmunai, Dhanushkoti, Tamil

Nadu, India at 3.15 pm, 11 hours and 15 minutes later.

Her mental strength and determination helped her to

battle against string ocean currents, changing tides and jellyfish encounters.

Despite being blind since birth Ishwari has emerged as a symbol of resilience

and determination.

M Vijayakumar from Para-Swimming Federation, India;

Jayakumar. Of Tamil Nadu Open Water Swimming Association and Sukhdev Dhurve,

winner of Iinternational Excellence Award were the official observer for

Ishwari’s attempt. The event was organised by Shark Aquatic Sporting

Association, Nagpur. Ishwari was accompanied by her international coach Sanjay

Batwe.

Ishwari is the daughter of Kamlesh and Aruna Pande,

who have been constantly supporting and encouraging her.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar