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Who was India’s first Olympic medalist?
Updated: 11-Apr-2025

Norman Pritchard was India’s first Olympic medalist, winning two silver medals at the 1900 Paris Olympics. He competed in athletics events—the 200m and 200m hurdles. Pritchard was of British descent but represented India as part of colonial British India.

Though there’s historical debate around his nationality, the International Olympic Committee officially credits the medals to India. His achievement marked India’s Olympic debut and paved the way for future generations. It wasn’t until 1952 that India won another individual Olympic medal, underscoring the significance of Pritchard’s feat.

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