Deepthi Jeevanji Wins Bronze in Women’s 400m T20 at Paris Paralympics
Deepthi Jeevanji, a para-athlete from India, has triumphed over adversity to clinch the bronze medal in the women’s 400m T20 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Despite falling short of her personal best, Deepthi’s remarkable performance earned her a place on the podium behind Ukraine’s Yuliia Shuliar and Turkey’s Aysel Onder, the world record holder.
Deepthi’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by resilience and determination. Born with intellectual disability, she faced relentless mockery and discrimination from her neighbors, who labeled her a “monkey” and urged her parents to abandon her. Undeterred, Deepthi’s parents stood by her, providing unwavering support that fueled her passion for sports.
“I was born during an eclipse, so our neighbors kept speaking against me. They called me monkey and advised my parents to abandon me or leave me at an orphanage. But I ignored all the negativity and focused on my sport,” Deepthi told India Today.
Financial challenges also plagued Deepthi’s family. Her parents were forced to sell their land to make ends meet. However, after winning an Asian Games medal, Deepthi used her earnings to buy back the land for her family.
Deepthi’s mother, Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, recalled the taunts her daughter endured growing up. “Every villager who saw her and some of our relatives would call Deepthi pichi (mental) and kothi (monkey) and tell us to send her to an orphanage,” she told The Indian Express.
Despite the hardships, Deepthi remained focused on her athletic pursuits. She found solace in sweet rice and chicken, which her mother would prepare to comfort her after facing ridicule.
Deepthi’s bronze medal at the Paralympics is a testament to her indomitable spirit and the power of perseverance. It is a victory not only for her but also for all those who have faced adversity and triumphed over it.