The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) has officially launched the logo and mascot for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, marking the start of the '100 Days to Go' countdown. The event, hosted by PCI, took place in New Delhi on Friday, June 20, 2025. This is a significant milestone as India prepares to host this prestigious global event for the first time, becoming only the fourth Asian nation to do so, after Qatar (Doha 2015), the UAE (Dubai 2019), and Japan (Kobe 2024).
The mascot, named Viraaj, is a spirited young elephant with a blade prosthesis, symbolizing resilience, courage, and unwavering strength. The logo captures India's rich heritage, the spirit of para athletics, and the vibrancy of New Delhi as the host city. The 12th edition of the championships will be held from September 27 to October 5, 2025, and will feature 186 medal events, including 101 for men, 84 for women, and 1 mixed event. Over 100 countries are expected to participate, with over 1,000 athletes competing at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized the city's commitment to hosting an inclusive global event that celebrates para-athletes. She stated that the logo and mascot beautifully reflect the soul of India and the power of para-sport and that New Delhi 2025 would be a landmark for inclusivity and excellence.
Adding star power to the event, actor and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut was announced as the Brand Ambassador for the Championships. Ranaut praised the mascot as a message of confidence, strength, and representation, expressing her pride in being part of an event that celebrates those who inspire with their resilience. She said that India's para-athletes are rewriting what is possible every single day, and she is honored to support them and help raise awareness about their incredible achievements.
PCI President and two-time Paralympic gold medallist Devendra Jhajharia highlighted the scale and significance of the event, noting that it is a massive opportunity for India to showcase its capability to host a grand event on the global stage. He also mentioned that the athletics track at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is being relaid ahead of the event and that the venue will be ready a month before the beginning of the event.
Paul Fitzgerald, Head of World Para Athletics, commended the PCI's preparations, calling New Delhi 2025 "one of the most engaging and inclusive championships ever envisioned." He added that India's energy and PCI's vision are truly inspiring.
The unveiling of the logo and mascot and the launch of the '100 Days to Go' countdown signifies India's readiness to host a world-class para-sporting event. With the support of the government, commercial partners, and the people of India, the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships is poised to be a historic event that promotes inclusivity, celebrates the achievements of para-athletes, and inspires future generations. The event aims to bring para-sports into every Indian home, school, and heart.
