Portion of Helipad Collapses After President Murmu’s Chopper Lands in Kerala’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium – Full Story & Implications

The Incident: What Happened

On 22 October 2025, during her four-day visit to Kerala, Draupadi Murmu landed at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Pramadam (Pathanamthitta ­district) aboard an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter. The landing, however, turned into a safety scare when a portion of the helipad sank under the chopper’s wheels. 

According to official sources, the helipad had been freshly constructed, and the concrete had not fully set. When the chopper touched down, the wheels created depressions in the surface and part of the tarmac gave way. Visuals show personnel from the fire and police departments physically helping to pull the helicopter out. 

The incident occurred moments after touchdown, and fortunately, there were no injuries. The President was safe and proceeded with her schedule. 

Background: The Visit & the Changing Landing Site

President Murmu had arrived in Kerala on 21 October 2025 evening, starting her four-day official visit. Her itinerary included a visit to the famed Sabarimala Temple, located in the foothills of the Sabarimala hills at Pathanamthitta. 

Originally, the landing was planned at Nilackal near Pamba, but due to inclement weather, the site was changed at the last moment to the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium at Pramadam. 

The helipad at this stadium was reportedly created late on the previous day (Tuesday) to accommodate the change. 

Officials admitted that because of the late switch, the concrete for the landing pad had not fully cured — setting time for such heavy load‐bearing surfaces is critical. 

 

Why the Helipad Collapsed: Underlying Factors

1. Freshly poured concrete

One of the key factors was that the landing area was newly concreted. The official reasoning states that the concrete had not fully set or cured, and hence the surface couldn’t immediately bear the load of the helicopter. The chopper wheels sank into depressions, leading to local collapse. 

2. Last-minute site change

The shift of landing site from Nilackal to Pramadam meant that infrastructure preparations were compressed into a tight window. This limited time for proper drying, compaction, and readiness.

 

3. Heavy load and surface stress

Helicopters such as the Mi-17 impose significant point loads on landing zones, especially when skids or wheels are involved. If the substrate or surfacing is not fully consolidated, these loads can cause sinking or collapsing. The scenario seems to match such load stress on a still-weak surface.

4. Quality & oversight considerations

The incident raises questions about supervision of the construction, curing protocols of concrete, choice of materials, and quality checks for a landing pad intended for high-priority use such as a Presidential visit.

 

Immediate Response & Safety Measures

Following the incident:

• Emergency personnel were quick to act: police and fire‐service staff were seen manually assisting in pulling the chopper out of the depression. 

• The President’s schedule proceeded without disruption, indicating that security protocols and contingency plans were in place and effective. 

• No injuries or damage to persons were reported, which is a relief. 

• The helipad is expected to be inspected and upgraded before future use, given the failure.

 

Broader Implications & Public Concern

Infrastructure readiness for VIP visits

When a landing pad for the Head of State fails under landing, it signals potential systemic gaps in infrastructure readiness. This raises concerns about whether similar last-minute setups elsewhere might suffer same fate.

Accountability & quality assurance

The incident calls for scrutiny regarding how such high‐visibility infrastructure is planned, executed and verified. Did authorities skip adequate curing time? Were load tests done? Who signed off?

Public trust & perception

For the citizenry, seeing a helipad collapse during a Presidential landing shakes confidence in public works and infrastructure standards. The image of the chopper tilting due to sinking pad does not create a favorable impression for state competence and governance.

Cost and resource implications

If newly constructed surfaces fail immediately, that implies wasted resources (money, materials, labour), and the likelihood of repeat expenditure for repairs or redesigns.

 

What Experts Might Recommend

• Adequate curing time for concrete: A standard landing pad for a helicopter requires concrete to reach design strength before heavy loads. Rushing diminishes structural integrity.

• Pre‐load testing and verification: Before use, the pad should be tested for the expected helicopter weight plus dynamic conditions, and any response (settlement, cracking) is monitored.

• Site selection and early planning: The sooner the landing site is finalised, the earlier preparations and quality assurance can be done. Last-minute changes should be avoided or managed with full risk assessment.

• Regular inspections for VIP infrastructure: Since these are critical assets, routine audits, independent inspections and maintenance protocols must be in place.

• Transparent accountability: When failures occur, the agencies responsible should provide clear explanations and remedial action plans to maintain public confidence.

 

The President’s Visit: Why It Mattered

President Murmu’s four-day visit to Kerala had several significant engagements:

• She arrived in Thiruvananthapuram and then proceeded to Pathanamthitta for darshan at Sabarimala. 

• She is the first woman President of India to visit the Sabarimala temple. 

• The visit also included unveiling key centenary celebrations and other ceremonial functions in the state.

Thus, the landing mishap during such a high‐profile visit emphasizes how even well-planned events can be unduly affected by infrastructure glitches.

 

What We Still Don’t Know & Questions Raised

• Who authorised the helipad construction and what was the time frame?

• Was there a formal safety inspection of the newly laid pad prior to landing?

• What is the exact load rating of the pad and was it matched to the helicopter’s weight?

• Are there similar facilities in the state (or elsewhere) that may have been constructed under similar constraints?

• What will be the corrective actions: repair, redesign, or stricter protocols?

• Will there be a formal inquiry and public report?

These questions matter because they influence future policy and public infrastructure confidence.

 

Concluding Thoughts

The incident at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Pramada is a striking reminder that even the most visible and high-priority operations—such as the landing of a presidential helicopter—are only as strong as the infrastructure behind them. 

When a helipad collapses under the weight of a chopper, it is more than just a technical glitch; it reflects on planning, execution, quality assurance, governance and public trust.

While it is fortunate that no one was hurt and the President’s schedule remained on track, the embarrassment and risk are real. The last-minute change of landing site, rushed construction, and inadequate curing of concrete suggest a set of avoidable mistakes. Infrastructure for state ceremonies should not be improvisational.

Going forward, officials must ensure that VIP landing pads and other critical infrastructure meet the highest standards—not just in theory, but in practice. Detailed inspection, load-testing, timely planning and accountability need to be core pillars of such preparations. These steps will help avoid repeat incidents and preserve faith in public works.

At its core, this episode is a wake-up call: high-visibility events demand high-visibility standards. In the world of security, infrastructure, and public service, there is no margin for error.

Draupadi Murmu helicopter landing issue

 

Aryna Sabalenka: The Fearless Powerhouse Redefining Women’s Tennis

Introduction:

In the fast-paced world of professional tennis, few names have risen as swiftly and powerfully as Aryna Sabalenka. Known for her explosive power, fiery temperament, and fearless gameplay, Sabalenka has become one of the most formidable forces on the WTA Tour.

From her early struggles in Minsk to conquering global stages like the Australian Open and US Open, Sabalenka’s rise embodies determination, mental toughness, and a relentless drive to win. Her journey isn’t just about trophies — it’s about transformation, resilience, and the evolution of modern women’s tennis.

In this in-depth article, we’ll explore Aryna Sabalenka’s biography, her early life, career milestones, achievements, controversies, personal insights, and what makes her one of the most exciting athletes of this generation.

 

1. Early Life and Background

Aryna Siarhiejeuna Sabalenka was born on May 5, 1998, in Minsk, Belarus. Her father, Sergey Sabalenka, was a former ice hockey player, and her mother encouraged Aryna’s sporting ambitions from an early age.

Interestingly, Aryna’s introduction to tennis was purely coincidental — one day, while walking with her father, she noticed tennis players on a local court and decided to try it. That spontaneous moment changed her life forever.

She joined the National Tennis Academy in Minsk, where her powerful athletic build and raw aggression quickly caught coaches’ attention. Unlike many juniors focused on finesse, Aryna relied on brute power and fearless striking, setting her apart even in her early teens.

 

2. Rising Through the Junior Ranks

Unlike many top players, Sabalenka didn’t have a highly celebrated junior career. She never competed extensively in major junior tournaments like the ITF Junior Grand Slams. Instead, she focused on professional-level events at a young age, which helped her gain

early exposure to elite competition.

By 2015, she began playing on the ITF Women’s Circuit, gradually building her ranking through consistent performances. Her first ITF title came in Antalya, Turkey, marking the start of her professional journey.

Her raw potential and explosive game made her a standout, and by 2017, Sabalenka was ready to challenge the world’s best.

 

3. Breakthrough on the WTA Tour

Aryna Sabalenka’s true breakthrough came in 2018, a year that defined her arrival on the world stage.

That year, she:

• Reached four WTA finals, winning her first title at the Connecticut Open in New Haven.

• Recorded wins over top players such as Caroline Wozniacki and Petra Kvitová.

• Finished the year ranked World No. 11, a massive leap from her 2017 ranking outside the top 70.

Her fierce competitiveness, emotional energy, and powerful groundstrokes earned her the nickname “Tiger,” symbolized by her signature tiger tattoo — a mark of strength and aggression.

 

4. Playing Style: The Definition of Power Tennis

Aryna Sabalenka’s game is a blend of brute strength, precision, and mental grit. She’s known for her:

• Devastating serves that often exceed 120 mph.

• Explosive forehands and backhands that overwhelm opponents.

• Aggressive baseline play, dictating points from the first shot.

• Emotional intensity that fuels her performance but sometimes challenges her composure.

Her style draws comparisons to tennis legends like Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, but Sabalenka has carved her own identity as the face of modern power tennis — bold, fast, and fearless.

 

5. Grand Slam Journey: The Road to Glory

While Sabalenka’s rise was rapid, Grand Slam success took time. For years, she struggled to make deep runs in major tournaments due to inconsistency and emotional volatility. However, that changed dramatically in 2021–2023, marking the peak of her dominance.

Australian Open 2023 Champion

Her crowning achievement came in January 2023, when she won her first Grand Slam singles title at the Australian Open, defeating Elena Rybakina in a thrilling final.

The victory was historic — not only did it solidify her position among the world’s elite, but it also showcased her mental maturity and composure under pressure.

“I always believed I could do it,” Sabalenka said after lifting the trophy, “but this time, I learned how to control my emotions.”

US Open 2023 Finalist

Later that year, she reached the US Open final, once again proving her consistency at the top level, though she lost to Coco Gauff in a hard-fought match. Despite the defeat, she earned immense respect for her powerful performances and sportsmanship.

Australian Open 2024 Champion

Aryna continued her dominance by defending her Australian Open title in 2024, becoming one of the few women to win back-to-back titles in the Open Era — a testament to her mental strength and elite athleticism.

 

6. Doubles Success: A Complete Player

Sabalenka is not just a singles star — she’s also a former World No. 1 in doubles. Teaming up with Elise Mertens, she won several prestigious titles, including:

• US Open 2019 Doubles Title

• Australian Open 2021 Doubles Title

Her doubles success helped refine her net game, improve her court awareness, and add more dimensions to her singles play.

 

7. Rankings and Milestones

Over the years, Aryna Sabalenka has achieved several career milestones that showcase her consistency and dominance:

• Reached World No. 1 ranking in 2023, dethroning Iga Świątek.

• Multiple WTA 1000 titles, including Madrid, Wuhan, and Doha.

• Over 20 career titles (singles + doubles) as of 2025.

• Became the first Belarusian woman to reach multiple Grand Slam finals.

Her presence in the top 5 of the WTA rankings for consecutive seasons highlights her ability to adapt and sustain excellence.

 

8. The Mental Game: Overcoming Emotional Battles

One of Aryna’s most notable transformations has been her mental growth. In her early career, emotional outbursts and self-doubt often led to losses from winning positions. Critics questioned her ability to stay calm under pressure.

However, she worked extensively with sports psychologists and mental coaches to find emotional balance.

Her mantra today is “focus on the next point, not the last mistake.”
This mental resilience has become her defining strength — allowing her to overcome tough opponents and high-pressure moments.

 

9. Aryna Sabalenka’s Fitness and Training Regime

Behind Aryna’s explosive performance lies a disciplined fitness routine and intense training schedule.

Her daily routine includes:

• Strength and conditioning workouts to build muscle endurance.

• Cardio sessions for agility and quick recovery.

• On-court drills focusing on serve accuracy and shot placement.

• Yoga and mindfulness for mental relaxation and balance.

Her athletic build and explosive movement make her one of the most physically dominant players on the WTA circuit.

 

10. Sponsors and Endorsements

Aryna Sabalenka’s success has attracted several high-profile brand endorsements, including:

• Nike (apparel and shoes)

• Wilson (rackets)

• Rolex (luxury watches)

• Pepsi Belarus and Technifibre in earlier stages of her career

These partnerships highlight her status not only as a top athlete but also as a global sports personality and marketable brand ambassador.

 

11. Personal Life: Beyond the Court

Off the court, Aryna Sabalenka is known for her vibrant personality, bold fashion sense, and love for travel. She often shares glimpses of her life on social media, connecting warmly with fans.

She was previously in a relationship with Konstantin Koltsov, a former Belarusian hockey player, who tragically passed away in 2024. 

The heartbreaking loss deeply affected Aryna, but she continued to play with grace and courage, dedicating several victories to his memory.

“He will always be my inspiration,” Sabalenka shared emotionally during an interview after her match in Miami 2024.

Her story of resilience through personal tragedy has inspired millions of fans around the world.

 

12. Rivalries: The Battle at the Top

Aryna Sabalenka’s era in women’s tennis has been defined by fierce rivalries with top players like:

• Iga Świątek – A battle of consistency vs power.

• Elena Rybakina – Two of the hardest hitters on tour.

• Coco Gauff – A generational clash of athleticism and strategy.

These rivalries have added intensity and excitement to the WTA circuit, drawing massive global audiences.

 

13. Sabalenka’s Relationship with Fans

Known for her open, passionate, and sometimes emotional demeanor, Aryna enjoys a strong connection with fans. Her authenticity and raw energy make her relatable — she’s not afraid to show her emotions, whether it’s joy after a win or tears after a tough loss.

She frequently interacts with fans on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), sharing behind-the-scenes moments, motivational quotes, and humorous clips from her training sessions.

 

14. Style and Personality

Sabalenka’s style, both on and off the court, mirrors her personality — bold, fearless, and unapologetically authentic. Her choice of vibrant Nike outfits and distinctive tattoos symbolize confidence and individuality.

Her tiger tattoo, in particular, represents strength, courage, and independence — values she embodies in every match she plays.

 

15. Aryna Sabalenka’s Influence on Women’s Tennis

Aryna has redefined what it means to be a modern female athlete. She’s not just about power — she’s about evolution, resilience, and the courage to express emotions freely.

Her rise has inspired young players, especially from Eastern Europe, to pursue tennis with passion and confidence. Many experts credit her with reviving aggressive baseline tennis in an era dominated by defensive play.

 

16. Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Sabalenka has received numerous accolades:

• WTA Player of the Year (2023)

• Belarusian Sportswoman of the Year (multiple times)

• Nominee for Laureus World Breakthrough Award

• ITF Player of the Year Nomination

These honors celebrate her athletic excellence and contribution to the sport.

 

17. Charity and Social Work

Despite her fierce on-court persona, Aryna has a compassionate side. She’s been involved in several charity exhibitions and fundraisers for children’s welfare, education, and sports development in Belarus.

She also donated portions of her prize money to relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and has supported initiatives for mental health awareness among athletes.

 

18. Challenges and Controversies

Like every elite athlete, Aryna has faced challenges. From early-career emotional struggles to criticism over her temper and occasional political questions due to her Belarusian nationality, she has navigated it all with grace and maturity.

Despite controversies, she has consistently maintained that her focus remains purely on sports and professionalism, letting her racket do the talking.

 

19. What Makes Aryna Sabalenka Unique

Aryna Sabalenka stands out in tennis for her:

• Unmatched physical power combined with improving mental strength.

• Transparency with emotions, which makes her relatable.

• Ability to balance personal tragedy and professional commitment.

• Dedication to continuous improvement, even after reaching World No. 1.

She’s not just another champion — she’s a symbol of modern womanhood, blending vulnerability and strength effortlessly.

 

20. The Road Ahead: Aryna Sabalenka’s Vision for the Future

As of 2025, Aryna Sabalenka remains one of the top-ranked players in the world, consistently competing for major titles. Her goals include:

• Winning more Grand Slam titles, especially Wimbledon and Roland Garros.

• Maintaining her position as World No. 1.

• Expanding her role as a global ambassador for tennis.

Given her age and form, experts believe Sabalenka could dominate women’s tennis for the next five years or more, continuing to inspire fans worldwide.

 

FAQs

Q1: How many Grand Slam titles does Aryna Sabalenka have?

As of 2025, Aryna Sabalenka has two Australian Open titles (2023, 2024) and one US Open title (2023 finalist), among other deep Grand Slam runs.

Q2: What is Aryna Sabalenka’s playing style?

Her playing style is aggressive baseline tennis — dominated by powerful serves, heavy groundstrokes, and fearless shot-making.

Q3: Who is Aryna Sabalenka’s coach?

Aryna has worked with several coaches, most notably Anton Dubrov, who helped refine her mental game and consistency.

Q4: What is Aryna Sabalenka’s world ranking?

As of 2025, Aryna Sabalenka remains among the Top 3 in WTA rankings, frequently battling Iga Świątek and Elena Rybakina for the top spot.

Q5: What makes Aryna Sabalenka so popular among fans?

Her emotional authenticity, power-packed tennis, and inspirational journey make her one of the most beloved figures in modern tennis.

 

Conclusion

Aryna Sabalenka’s story is one of unbreakable willpower, transformation, and excellence. From the courts of Minsk to the grand stages of Melbourne and New York, she has proven that success isn’t just about talent — it’s about heart, belief, and perseverance.

Her ability to bounce back from personal and professional challenges has made her a role model for millions. Whether smashing aces, breaking records, or breaking barriers, Aryna continues to redefine women’s tennis with fearless energy and passion.

As she continues her journey, one thing is certain — Aryna Sabalenka isn’t just playing the game: she’s changing it forever.

 

Aryna Sabalenka biography