In this inspiring episode of Eyeway Conversations, host George Abraham sits down with Munawar Anzar, the Founding General Secretary of the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association and the Chief Coach of the Indian Blind Judo team. Munawar Anzar shares his incredible journey from being a judo player to becoming an international referee and pioneering blind judo in India. He details the challenges and triumphs of establishing the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association, which now boasts over 5000 players nationwide. Munawar Anzar delves into the efforts to promote blind judo at the national and international levels, highlighting the training and competition structure that has led Indian athletes to excel on the global stage. He discusses the categorization of blind judo, the significance of discipline in martial arts, and how judo has become a powerful tool for self-defense and personal growth for visually impaired individuals. Listeners will also hear about the journey of two outstanding blind judo athletes, Kapil and Kokila, who are set to compete in the upcoming Paris Paralympics. Munawar Anzar sheds light on the rigorous training camps, international exposure, and unwavering support from organizations like the Paralympic Committee of India, Sports Authority of India, and Olympic Gold Quest, which have been instrumental in elevating the standard of blind judo in India. Please tune in to learn about the impact of blind judo, how it has transformed many lives, and the prospects of the sport in India. Shownotes: Introduction to Munawar Anzar Founding General Secretary of the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association Chief Coach of the Indian Blind Judo Team International referee with a remarkable journey in judo The Origin of Blind Judo in India Munawar’s transition from a judo player to an international referee Introduction of blind judo at the 2010 Guangzhou Para-Asian Games Formation of the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association Development and Growth of Blind Judo Registration and training camps across 17 states in India Annual district, state, and national competitions International participation and recognition Blind Judo Categorization and Competition Structure Transition from B1, B2, B3 classifications to J1 and J2 categories Weight categories and rules specific to blind judo Success Stories: Kapil and Kokila Kapil: World Ranking 1 in Blind Judo Below 60 kg, aiming for gold in Paris Paralympics Kokila: World Ranking 6, with increasing confidence and international success Training and Support System Intensive training camps in Japan and Lucknow Role of the Paralympic Committee of India, Sports Authority of India, and OGQ Facilities, diet, psychological support, and the role of international coaches The Future of Blind Judo in India Munawar Anzar’s vision for expanding blind judo across the nation How to get involved: Contact details and joining the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association The role of judo in self-defense, fitness, and personal empowerment Conclusion and Hopes for Paris Paralympics Anticipation for the Indian team’s performance at the Paris Paralympics Final words of encouragement for aspiring judo athletes Resources: Indian Blind and Para Judo Association: www.indianblindandparajudoassociation.org Connect with Eyeway by emailing now [email protected] Learn more about Blind Sports: International Blind Sports Federation Follow Eyeway Conversations on Apple Podcasts or Spotify for more inspiring stories. Stay updated with the latest episodes and initiatives by following us on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.