Arsala Khan
When doctors discovered a tumour in Shams Alam’s spine, they reassured him that he would be fine and able to run soon. That day never came.
The lower half of his body was left numb due to paraplegia — a life-altering moment. Yet, instead of surrendering to despair, Shams Alam chose resilience. Through sheer determination and an undying love for swimming, he rose to make his country proud.
Today, Shams Alam stands tall as a para-swimmer who has left an indelible mark — not just in Bihar, but across the nation and on the international stage. He has shattered records and broken barriers, all while navigating a life filled with unexpected challenges and triumphs.
Shams Alam with his parents Mohammad Nasir and Shakeela Khatoon
Born on July 17, 1986, in the village of Rathos in Madhubani, Bihar, Shams Alam is the son of Mohammad Nasir. From an early age, he was fond of swimming. His mother, Shakeela Khatoon, encouraged him to pursue his interests. Later, the family made a pivotal decision: to send him to Mumbai in search of better opportunities.
In Mumbai, Shams enrolled in a government school and began practicing martial arts alongside his studies. He quickly rose through the ranks, winning medals and establishing himself as a serious contender for the Asian Games. He loved swimming and martial arts, which also gave him a sense of discipline and purpose.
One day, during a training session, he felt a sharp and persistent pain in his back. Doctors detected a tumour in his spine, and surgery was inevitable.
Shams Alam with his coach Raja Ram Ghag
Her words gave him strength, and instead of mourning his circumstances, he channelled his energy into swimming.
Shams had to give up his dream of participating in the Asian Games and instead go for surgery. Even after the surgery, his paralysis did not go away. Doctors were hopeful and told him that he would be walking within two to three weeks — but that never happened. A second surgery followed, but it confirmed the permanence of his paraplegia.
Shams Alam with Indian Ambassador R Ravindran and his wife in Iceland
Rather than let his disability define him, Shams made a comeback that few could have imagined. In 2017, he set a world record by swimming 8 kilometres in open sea in just 4 hours and 4 minutes — the longest distance ever swum by a para-athlete in open water.
From November 20 to 24, 2019, he participated in six events at the Polish Open Swimming Championship in Poland. There, he won both the 50-meter butterfly and the 100-meter breaststroke. Shams had set a national record and reinforced his place among the elite in para swimming.
Recognizing his achievements and inspirational journey, the Bihar Election Commission appointed him as its brand ambassador. Shams credits his coach, Raja Ram Ghag, for playing a transformative role in his career.
Shams Alam with Music Maestro A R Rahman
The Bihar state sports department also appointed him to the Bihar Task Force. In 2018, he received the Bihar Khel Ratna Award, followed by the Karn International Award in 2019.
“Due to my disability, much has changed in my life,” says Shams. “My perspective towards people with disabilities has evolved.”
He founded the Foot Support Association, Mumbai, a registered organization that provides a platform for persons with disabilities to showcase their talents in sports.
Shams Alam at Reykjavic Games held in Iceland
Shams Alam’s story is a powerful narrative of adversity, hope, and achievement. A swimmer from a village in Bihar, he has emerged as a national icon in para-sports. Through his unwavering commitment, he not only achieved personal greatness but also lifted the profile of para-athletes in India.
His journey stands as proof that physical limitations cannot block the path of dreams. Sham's talent, fortified by discipline and courage, is a reminder that the brave turn every obstacle into an opportunity.
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At the 24th National Para Swimming Championship held in Goa, Shams once again made Bihar and India proud. His haul of gold, silver, and bronze medals reaffirmed his status as India's top para-athlete.