From bizman to champion swimmer: Parveen an inspiration for youth

At an age when most people tend to slow down, the 76-year-old Parveen Gaind is diving into new challenges—literally. The veteran swimmer, who once ruled the pool as a national-level swimmer in his youth, is now inspiring a new generation with his determination, discipline and gold medal victories at Masters-level competitions.

Gaind is currently training for the upcoming All India Masters Swimming Championship, scheduled to be held in October or November. His daily routine goes like this—he swims for an hour every day and complements his practice with yoga and exercise to maintain peak fitness.

Speaking about his journey, Gaind reflected on his early years. “I started swimming in 1964 and continued until 1972. That was the golden period of my life,” he said, with a nostalgic smile. During his school and college days, he earned several medals at the national level and was known for his prowess in the pool.

However, like many, he got caught up in the responsibilities of family and business. Gaind runs a machine tool unit in Jalandhar and spent decades building his business. For 35 years, swimming took a backseat.

Then came a wake-up call. “One day, I realised I couldn’t even walk 100 meters because my knees started hurting,” he recalled. Concerned, he visited a doctor, who suggested hydrotherapy—cycling in water—to improve his mobility. That advice reignited his passion for swimming, he said.

In 2008, he made a comeback. What started as therapy, soon became a mission. Gaind dove back into competitive swimming and hasn’t looked back since. Over the years, he has won several gold medals in masters-level championships and continues to train with unwavering focus.

Last year, he won two gold medals in 200-m and 400-m, respectively, during the All-India Masters Competition in Lucknow.

Now, at 76, he feels healthier and more energetic than ever. “I can walk 7 to 8 kilometres without any difficulty,” he said. His story isn’t just about personal triumph but also about spreading a message. “I urge today’s generation to adopt sports and practice yoga. It keeps you mentally and physically fit.”

Gaind’s journey is not only a tale of resilience and comeback but also a powerful reminder that age is just a number. His commitment to fitness and his passion for swimming make him a role model for the youth.

As he prepares for his next competition, Gaind stands as a beacon of inspiration—proving that with dedication and the right mind-set, it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams.

Jalandhar