Tale of India's Paralympic Gold Medalist - A candid autobiography unfolds
Deepa Malik, a name synonymous with India's Paralympic successes, has become the country's most celebrated Paralympian. Despite battling multiple spinal tumors, paralysis, and personal losses, she defied all odds to make her mark in the world of para-athletics.
At the age of 30, Deepa was diagnosed with a spinal tumor. This setback didn't deter her spirit, and she ventured into para-athletics late but went on to win India’s first Paralympic medal by a woman—a silver in shot put at the 2016 Summer Paralympics. Her achievements have been widely recognized and celebrated on the world stage.
Deepa's journey mirrors that of other inspiring athletes who triumphed over adversity to achieve sporting excellence. For instance, Tatyana McFadden, a wheelchair racer born with spina bifida, adopted and raised in the US, who went on to win multiple Paralympic medals and marathons. Similarly, Sarah Storey from the UK, who overcame a disability from birth to become Britain's most decorated Paralympian across swimming and cycling.
The Paralympic Committee of India, which has nurtured athletes winning numerous medals, including India’s first Paralympic gold in 2004, plays a significant role in India's Paralympic successes. The committee's success at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 shows a growing movement of Indian para-athletes overcoming personal and physical challenges.
Deepa's life and achievements are chronicled in her autobiography, Bring It On, a 312-page book published by HarperCollins India. The book offers a glimpse into her struggles, triumphs, and the resilience that has made her a beacon of hope for many. At Rs 499, Bring It On is likely to serve as another source of inspiration for those in difficult circumstances.
Deepa's story is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Despite being called a kandam (a wasted or useless person) by some in her extended family, she managed to keep her joys, family, and life's purpose in sight. Her humility led her to seek help, which ultimately made her "wheelchair-liberated" instead of "wheelchair-bound".
Deepa's accomplishments extend beyond the Paralympics. She continued her love affair with bikes and made her rallying dream come true. Her story, as detailed in Bring It On, serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and grit, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.
The support system of a fauji family in India is evident in the camaraderie they exhibit. Deepa, who became the first Indian female paraplegic swimmer, has been a source of inspiration for many, and her story continues to inspire generations to come.
- Deepa Malik's ventures in para-athletics, following her diagnosis with a spinal tumor at 30, led to India's first Paralympic medal for a woman in 2016, showcasing the power of the human spirit and resilience.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, mental health, and women's health, Tatyana McFadden, a wheelchair racer, and Sarah Storey, an athlete overcoming a disability from birth, are significant figures who have defied odds to achieve sporting excellence.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in an athlete's life, and Deepa's autobiography, Bring It On, offers a framework for coping with adversity, drawing from her personal struggles and triumphs.
- Parenting, sports, sports-analysis, and fitness-and-exercise are all spheres where Deepa's achievements, transcending the Paralympics, continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration, particularly for Indian para-athletes and those facing challenges.
