India Unveils Logo and Mascot ‘Viraaj’ for New Delhi 2025 World Para…
INDIA
New Delhi: India has officially unveiled the logo and mascot for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, marking a significant milestone as the country prepares to host the prestigious event for the first time. Scheduled to take place from September 27 to October 5, 2025, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Championships will feature over 1,700 athletes from more than 100 countries.
The newly revealed logo reflects a fusion of Indian culture and the global spirit of para sports. It features a para-athlete in a racing wheelchair at the center, surrounded by traditional Indian motifs such as the peacock, elephant, sitar, and spinning wheel. The Lotus Temple serves as the central symbol, representing New Delhi’s identity and India’s spirit of welcome. Vibrant colours like saffron, magenta, and deep blue highlight the energy and inclusivity of the event.
Alongside the logo, organisers introduced the official mascot, ‘Viraaj’ — a young elephant with a prosthetic running blade. Symbolising courage and determination, Viraaj wears athletic gear with the event logo and has expressive green eyes and a confident smile. His name, derived from Sanskrit, means “brilliance” or “excellence.”
“Hosting the world’s largest single para sport event is not only a proud moment for India but also a strategic step toward our aspiration of hosting the 2036 Olympic Games,” said Jayawant, Secretary General of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). “This is a celebration of resilience, excellence, and our nation’s readiness to deliver events of global scale.”
Satya Babu, Director at PCI, added, “Viraaj is more than just a mascot — he is a symbol of inspiration. His story resonates with young people and athletes alike, representing the core values of inclusivity, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.”
With the unveiling of the logo and mascot, India sets the tone for a historic and inclusive championship, showcasing its growing role in global sports and its commitment to celebrating human potential in all forms.