Kolkata is a city of many firsts for me: Deepa Malik

Padma Shri Deepa Malik, an Arjuna and Khel Ratna awardee, embodies determination in her journey of winning a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in shot put. Refusing to let disability define her, she embraced sports for empowerment and rehabilitation. At a city club, Malik shared insights on her journey, struggles, and her ability to find the silver lining in every situation.

‘Every first came with its own set of challenges’
The Paralympics celebrate human spirit and athleticism but come with challenges, and Deepa Malik’s journey was no exception. “Everything I achieved as a Paralympian was a first in India. People loved it, but every first came with challenges. I had no footsteps to follow, and few believed in a woman in her 30s,” she shared. Reflecting on her roles beyond athletics, Deepa said, “My journey is not just that of a sportsperson, but also a mother, daughter, wife, and a person with disability raising a daughter with disability. Challenges came, but many hands supported me — I am nobody without help.”

Deepa, the antidepressant
Individuals with disabilities often inspire with resilience and positivity, and Deepa Malik is no different. “My love for the outdoors and identifying my sources of happiness shape who I am today. I know how to rejuvenate my soul and jumpstart my system when it’s low because I’ve found my anchors of happiness and consciously follow them.”
She stressed upon the importance of hobbies: “People aren’t pursuing hobbies, which bring happiness to the soul. We all need something to make us smile in tough times. I focus on solutions rather than problems, and my father taught me that adding value to someone’s life is the best motivation.”

'My journey taught me what it is to help others. It taught me gratitude and patience'


'Kolkata has been a city of many firsts for me – my first rock band, first solo outing for an English movie. I have high school memories here too'


‘Sports was my medium to prove my abilities’
Paralympic athletes face unique challenges, requiring strong mental fortitude to overcome physical limitations and push past barriers. As Deepa puts it, “If a person with a disability comes out to play, they’ve already proven mind over body. Overcoming these challenges demands immense mental strength.” She adds, “For me, sports was the best medium to prove my abilities beyond disabilities. The moment you are called an athlete, your perspective changes. It wasn’t easy when I began, and it is not easy for any para-athlete to start their journey”