Srinagar/Shimla: The remote village of Loihdhar in Kishtwar and perhaps entire Jammu and Kashmir today shot into a global fame: Its 18-year-old armless ace archer Sheetal Devi achieved something no other has achieved so far. She has become India's first woman to secure a Gold medal in the Archery in Para Asian Games 2023 held in China.
Armless Sheetal took the world by storm at the Para Asiad in China. She grasped her arrow with her tiny foot fingers, held it in her mouth, placed it on her harness, and skillfully stretched it using her right foot.
With an unwavering focus, she delivered a perfect bullseye shot, hitting the center of the target. She won gold and became India's first woman to do so.
Sheetal's life journey is nothing short of inspiring. She has perhaps invoked, legendary world's best Dhanushdhari Arjuna, comments her fan.
Born without arms, a condition known as Pokhomelia, she defied the odds and refused to let her circumstances define her.
She firmly believes that hard work kick-starts every success story and that each one of us possesses the potential for greatness.
Her path was far from easy, but her determination remained unbreakable. School was her refuge, a place where she found acceptance and true friendship.
Despite her physical difference, she was embraced with the same love and respect as everyone else.
Sheetal's story is living proof of the incredible strength of the human spirit, fueled by a will to do something no one has done before.
During her school days, her mother nurtured her and told her she was the most beautiful girl in the world. Her younger sister Shivani always stood by her.
Yet, Sheetal's journey was not without its challenges. She vividly recalls the moments when she fearlessly climbed trees with her friends, conquering her fears and demonstrating her ability to overcome any obstacle.
She never allowed the stares and judgments of others to deter her. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that our abilities are not confined by our physical attributes.
Sheetal Devi's talent was first picked up by the Indian army. They trained her. Mata Vaishno Devi Board also supported her.
Her remarkable feat in the Para Asian Games did not go unnoticed.
Anand Mahindra, the Chairman of the Mahindra Group, was so deeply moved by Sheetal's story that he generously extended an offer to provide her with a customized car of her choice as a token of respect for her astounding achievement.
In Sheetal's own words, she proudly represents the Himalayas, her home and her journey is a shining example that where you come from and the challenges you face should never limit your potential.
Her story serves as a an inspiration that greatness transcends all boundaries.
