The Paris Paralympics 2024 is set to commence on August 28 and will run until September 8, featuring around 4,400 athletes from across the globe competing in 22 different sports. India is proudly sending its largest-ever contingent of 84 para-athletes to these Paralympic Games, among whom is the talented archer Sheetal Devi, regarded as one of the country’s strongest medal contenders.
Who is Sheetal Devi?
Hailing from a small village in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, Sheetal Devi embodies resilience and determination. Born with a congenital condition known as phocomelia, she has been without arms since birth. Despite these challenges, her spirit remains unbroken. Coming from a modest farming family, with her father working the fields and her mother managing their goats, Sheetal has taken it upon herself to win a medal for her country at the Paralympics. At just 17 years old, she has become a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Unique Archery Skills
In a remarkable display of skill and adaptability, Sheetal practices archery using her feet. She uses her right foot to lift the bow, pulls the string with her right shoulder, and releases the arrow using the strength of her jaw. Witnessing her in action leaves spectators in awe, highlighting her incredible talent and determination.
Trailblazer in Para Archery
Sheetal Devi is celebrated as the world’s first and only active female archer who competes without arms. In 2023, she achieved a significant milestone by earning a silver medal at the Para Archery World Championships, qualifying her for the Paris Games. However, she will face tough competition in Paris from athletes like the world-ranked third player Jen Karla Gogal and the reigning World Championship winner, Ozanur Kure.
Historic Achievements at the 2023 Asian Para Games
During the 2023 Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China, Sheetal made headlines by clinching three medals, including two golds. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win two gold medals in a single edition of these games. She was subsequently honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award, recognizing her incredible contribution to para-sports in India.
Start of Her Journey
Sheetal’s journey into archery started rather late. Until the age of 15, she had never even seen a bow and arrow. Her life changed dramatically in 2022 when she visited the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, about 200 kilometers from her home, on the recommendation of an acquaintance. There, she met coaches Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Vedwan, who introduced her to the world of archery. After joining a training camp in Katra, Sheetal’s commitment and hard work have propelled her to remarkable heights.
Inspiration for Many
Sheetal Devi serves as an inspiration not only for aspiring athletes in India but for individuals facing their own challenges globally. Her story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity, proving that determination and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
