Bangalore, April 13:
Marking a historic milestone for para-sports in India, the Deuce Tennis Centre (DTC) — the nation’s first-ever Centre of Excellence for Wheelchair Tennis was inaugurated at Sidhalghatta, Chikkaballapura, about 50 kms from here on Saturday. The event witnessed a vibrant and inspiring ceremony hosted by Astha, a non-profit organization championing the rights and inclusion of people with physical disabilities. Funded through a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the launch signalled a transformative step towards building an inclusive sporting ecosystem in the country.
The event brought together a distinguished panel of guests, government officials, athletes, and community leaders committed to redefining accessibility and excellence in Indian tennis. Amongst the dignitaries present included Mr. KH Muniyappa, Minister for Food & Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Government of Karnataka, Dr. MC Sudhakar, Minister for Higher Education, Government of Karnataka, Dr. C. Narayanaswamy, Chairman, 5th Karnataka State Finance Commission & Former Member of Parliament, M. Mallesh Babu, Member of Parliament, Kolar Lok Sabha Constituency and B.N. Ravi Kumar, MLA, Sidlaghatta Assembly Constituency amongst others.
Shilpa KP, National Women’s Champion & ITF No. 96 Wheelchair Tennis Player and Prahlad Srinath, former Indian Davis Cupper and Asian Games Medalist were the guests of honour.
The program featured the unveiling of the DTC logo, a demonstration of elite wheelchair tennis led by Srinath Prahalad, and a musical narration of the DTC journey by Vaishnavi Hangal, accompanied by students from Gangubai Hangal Sangeet Vidyalaya and volunteers of Astha.
Speaking at the event, CA Sunil Jain, Chairman of DTC, shared: “DTC is not just a facility — it’s a mission to create a Democratic Tennis Culture where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. Tennis is often seen as an individual pursuit, but DTC embodies the belief that it’s a team journey — one of shared purpose, effort, and reward.”
Mr. KH Muniyappa, Hon’ble Minister for Food & Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, remarked: “This Centre of Excellence is a matter of great pride for Karnataka. It sets a new standard for inclusivity in sports and shows what’s possible when government, civil society, and corporate entities work together for a common cause,” while adding that the Government would support the endeavours of DTC.
Dr. MC Sudhakar, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, said: “We are committed to ensuring that educational institutions and sports centres promote accessibility and empowerment. DTC reflects this vision — a place where ability is celebrated, and everyone gets an equal opportunity to excel.”
Mr. Srinath Prahalad, Former Davis Cupper and key mentor for the centre, noted: “The athletes I’ve met here are nothing short of inspiring. With the right infrastructure and coaching, they can take Indian wheelchair tennis to the world stage. This centre is the first step in that journey.”
Ms. Shilpa K P, India’s top-ranked women’s wheelchair tennis player, shared: “For the first time, we have a space that truly belongs to us — where we can train, grow, and dream without limits. It’s not just about tennis; it’s about dignity, representation, and hope.”
The launch of DTC as India’s first Centre of Excellence for Wheelchair Tennis reinforces Astha’s long-standing commitment to inclusive development, accessible infrastructure, and sporting excellence for individuals with disabilities. The centre is envisioned as a nurturing ground for future national and international champions, and a beacon for similar initiatives across the country.
