India Autism Center Honours Yadhavi’s World Record Swimmers for Championing Inclusive Sports

New Delhi, 24th April 2026

Event at a Glance

• Event: Sports for All – Building an Equitable Sporting Ecosystem for All
• Occasion: World Autism Awareness Month 2026
• Venue: India International Centre, New Delhi
• Hosted By: India Autism Center (IAC)
• Partners: The Quantum Hub, Special Olympics Bharat & The Accessibility Coalition
• Recognition: Felicitation of Four World Record Holders from Yadhavi Sports Academy
• Honourees: Master Meka Sri Ashvath, Master Gunturu Lav, Master Gunturu Kush & Master
  Thanvesh Navin
• Achievement Recognised: 60 KM International Open-Water Relay Swim across the Palk Strait in 24
  Hours

A National Recognition for an Extraordinary Achievement

Every world record tells a story of determination, but the greatest achievements are those that inspire lasting change.

As part of World Autism Awareness Month 2026, the India Autism Center (IAC) honoured four young swimmers from Yadhavi Sports Academy for Special Needs during its flagship initiative, “Sports for All – Building an Equitable Sporting Ecosystem for All,” held at the India International Centre, New Delhi.

The ceremony celebrated the young athletes for their historic 60-kilometre international open-water relay swim across the Palk Strait, a remarkable achievement that earned them recognition from the World Book of Records.

The felicitation was led by Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, alongside Geeta Mandaviya, Patron Member of Special Olympics Gujarat; Jaishankar Natarajan, Director & Chief Executive Officer of India Autism Center; Sakhi Singhi, Governing Body Member and Head of Communications, Partnerships, Fundraising & Talent Acquisition at India Autism Center; and Rohit Kumar, Founding Partner of The Quantum Hub. Their presence underscored the national significance of the achievement and the growing importance of inclusive sports in India.

Honouring Four Young Champions

The ceremony recognised four exceptional swimmers whose determination captured the attention of the nation:

• Master Meka Sri Ashvath
• Master Gunturu Lav
• Master Gunturu Kush
• Master Thanvesh Navin

Together, they completed a 60-kilometre two-way international open-water relay swim between Dhanushkodi, India, and Talaimannar, Sri Lanka, in 24 continuous hours, creating a milestone in inclusive sports and demonstrating the extraordinary potential of children with autism.

At just 9 to 11 years of age, these young athletes displayed exceptional endurance, discipline, and resilience. Their achievement reflects months of dedicated training, unwavering determination, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to pursue extraordinary goals.

A Celebration of Inclusive Sport

The Sports for All initiative brought together leaders from government, sports, accessibility, education, and the non-profit sector to discuss how India can build a more equitable sporting ecosystem for neurodiverse individuals and persons with disabilities.

More than a felicitation ceremony, the event celebrated a vision of sport where participation is inclusive, opportunities are accessible, and talent is recognised regardless of diagnosis. It reinforced the belief that sport can nurture confidence, resilience, independence, and a strong sense of belonging.

The Journey Behind the Recognition

The young swimmers’ success reflects years of dedicated work by Yadhavi Sports Academy for Special Needs, founded by Mr. Sathish Sivakumar, Founder and Head Coach.

With a philosophy centred on structured coaching, life-skill development, and inclusive sports education, Yadhavi has empowered hundreds of children with special needs to discover their strengths through sport.

Beginning with pool-based training, the four swimmers gradually progressed to competitive open-water events, national championships, and endurance challenges. After months of intensive preparation, they successfully completed the historic 60-kilometre international relay, earning worldwide recognition while inspiring countless families across India.

Their journey demonstrates that when children receive specialised coaching, consistent encouragement, and opportunities to grow, they can achieve goals once thought impossible.

Conversations That Inspire Change

Beyond celebrating athletic excellence, the programme featured insightful discussions on accessibility, public policy, inclusive coaching, and collaboration within India’s sporting ecosystem.

Experts from organisations including India Autism Center, Special Olympics Bharat, The Quantum Hub, GoSports, Sugamya Accessibility & Inclusion, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, and Umoya Sports explored ways to strengthen training pathways and expand opportunities for neurodiverse athletes.

The event also included a special session featuring Yadhavi’s coaches and the swimmers’ parents, who shared the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork that made this remarkable achievement possible.

Recognition That Extends Beyond the Medal

The presence of Dr. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, added special significance to the occasion. As one of India’s leading advocates for inclusive sports, her recognition of the young swimmers reflected the growing national commitment to creating sporting environments where every child has the opportunity to participate, compete, and excel.

The felicitation also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Yadhavi’s coaches, families, and supporters, whose collective belief has helped transform challenges into achievements and aspirations into reality. For Yadhavi Sports Academy, the honour represents more than recognition for a single accomplishment. It validates years of dedication to building an inclusive sporting culture where ability is celebrated, confidence is nurtured, and every child is empowered to reach their fullest potential.

Looking Ahead

This national recognition marks another important milestone in Yadhavi’s journey, but it is far from the final destination. The academy remains committed to expanding inclusive sports programmes, creating greater opportunities for children with special needs, promoting autism awareness, and preparing young athletes to compete on national and international platforms.

Being honoured by the India Autism Center in the presence of distinguished leaders, including Dr. Mallika Nadda, is more than a celebration of athletic excellence. It is a powerful affirmation that inclusive sports can transform lives, challenge perceptions, and inspire future generations.

For Yadhavi Sports Academy, this recognition strengthens an enduring mission—to ensure that every child is recognised for their abilities, encouraged to pursue their dreams, and empowered to achieve the extraordinary.