From mockery to Medal: Deepthi Jeevanji's inspiring Paralympic debut journey

Deepthi Jeevanji has made history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 400m T20 classification final at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. This win marked India’s 16th medal in the Games and helped the country surpass its Tokyo 2020 record.

Overcoming challenges

Born on September 27, 2003, in Kalleda village, Telangana, Deepthi faced early challenges. Her parents, daily-wage workers, were taunted by villagers due to her mental impairment. Despite the mockery, Deepthi’s family stood by her. Her mother, Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, shared their struggles and how they were ridiculed but remained supportive of Deepthi’s dreams.

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Deepthi’s journey in athletics began when she was discovered by coach N Ramesh at the age of 15. She first gained international recognition at the 2019 Asian Youth Championships in Hong Kong, where she won a bronze medal. Her career soared when she won gold in the 400m T20 classification at the Asian Para Games last year, setting new records.

At the 2024 World Championships, she ran the 400m in a world-record time of 55.06 seconds. In the Paralympics, she clocked 55.82 seconds, finishing behind Ukraine’s Yuliia Shuliar and Turkey’s Aysel Onder. Despite not winning gold, Deepthi’s achievement is celebrated as a significant milestone in her career and Indian athletics.