The Inspiring Achievements of Indian

Women Athletes with Disabilities

Imagine a world where women with disabilities rewrite the narrative surrounding physical
abilities, achieving remarkable feats in para-sports. These inspiring individuals shatter
stereotypes and prove that dreams have no boundaries. As we celebrate Women's Day, let's
explore the inspiring journeys of these inspiring individuals, and the determination fueling their
success.

Deepa Malik - A Champion in Shotput and Beyond

Deepa Malik's story is one of extraordinary courage, perseverance, and a spirit that refused to
be defined by her circumstances. A spinal tumor surgery that left her paralyzed from the waist
down could have easily extinguished her sporting dreams. Deepa did not do what others
expected. She did something new and amazing.

Deepa turned her focus to shotput, a sport demanding immense upper body strength and
technique. Through years of rigorous training and unwavering determination, she mastered the
sport. She became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal with her historic silver in
shotput at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

Deepa Malik is more than a sportsperson; she is a living example of how strong and brave
humans can be. She inspires us on Women’s Day that we all have the power to face challenges
and make our lives better.

Avani Lekhara - A Rising Star on the World Stage

The life story of Avani Lekhara is a demonstration of the indomitable spirit of humans. A car
accident she had at a young age paralyzed her, but it did not dim her desire to be a sporting
champion. The shooter Abhinav Bindra was an inspiration to her and she started shooting which
not only became her passion but also a path that helped her rediscover her possibilities.

She did not have many places to train, people did not expect much from her because of her
disability, and her body kept changing. These things could have made her lose hope, but she
never gave up. Avani practiced her shooting skills with a clear goal. She was very committed to
her dream. She made history for India when she won the first gold medal for India in shooting at
the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.

She uses her platform to advocate for accessible infrastructure, challenge stereotypes, and
create a more inclusive society where people with disabilities can thrive in sports and beyond.
Her story inspires young girls around the nation, empowering them to shatter limitations and
chase their dreams. On this Women's Day, her story resonates not just with its achievements,
but with the determination it carries.

Ekta Bhyan - The Undisputed Queen of Discus

Ekta Bhyan embodies the power of perseverance and redefining limitations. A spinal cord injury
left her paralyzed from the waist down, but this Haryana-born para-athlete has made a
remarkable mark in the world of club throw and discus throw, breaking barriers and bringing
glory to India on the international stage.

Despite facing challenges unique to her disability, Ekta's determination has fueled her success.
Against all odds, she overcame these obstacles, emerging as a medal-winning powerhouse in
the world of para-athletics. Her achievements include a bronze at the 2022 Asian Para Games
and a historic 6th-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Ekta's journey has put Indian
para-athletics on the map.

This Women's Day, we celebrate Ekta Bhyan as a phenomenal force. She inspires countless
young girls to pursue their dreams, demonstrating the strength that can be found, even in the
face of adversity.

Palak Kohli - A Rising Badminton Star

This Women's Day, we celebrate Palak Kohli, a young Indian para-badminton champion who
proves that anything is possible. Her story of overcoming disability and reaching incredible
sporting heights is a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. She was born with a disability
that affects her upper limbs, but she never let it define her. With incredible determination, she
discovered a passion for badminton and dedicated herself to the sport.

Despite facing challenges, Palak's hard work and talent shone through. She won multiple
national championships in both junior and senior categories. Her success didn't stop there –
she conquered the international stage, winning four medals for India. Palak's greatest
achievement was qualifying for the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics, becoming the youngest female
athlete to do so.

Palak Kohli's success is a testament to the power of the human spirit. She challenges
stereotypes about disability and shows that with determination, you can achieve anything. Her
spirit inspires young girls and women to dream big and never let obstacles stand in their way.
Aruna Tanwar: A Rising Star in Para Taekwondo
Aruna Tanwar is a rising star in the world of para taekwondo, an inspiration to athletes and
individuals worldwide. Born in Haryana, India, in 2000, Aruna was born with a disability that
affects her arms. However, her physical challenges have never defined her; instead, they have
fueled her determination.

Aruna was a young girl of eight when she took up Taekwondo. Despite the challenges posed by
her disability, her dedication and love for the sport never faltered. Her talent and hard work
shone brightly, earning her the title of a five-time National Champion.

Aruna's impact extends beyond the competition arena. She serves as an inspiration to young
athletes, especially those with disabilities, demonstrating the power of determination and hard
work in achieving goals.

This Women's Day, we honor the incredible athletic achievements of Indian women with
disabilities. Their stories of overcoming adversity, breaking barriers, and winning medals prove
that strength comes from within. Let's celebrate these women and work towards a world where
everyone, regardless of ability, can reach their full potential.