Sakshi Malik: Deepa Malik’s life story an inspiring tale

When Sakshi Malik became the first Indian athlete to win a medal at the Rio Olympics 2016, entire country  celebrated the medal as their own, but little was spoken about the inspirational Paralympic contingent when they made the country proud by winning four medals in the Paralympics. On Tuesday, Sakshi Malik had praised the the life story of Para athlete Deepa Malik as an inspirational tale.\

The Rio Olympic bronze medallist said, “No that is not the fact (government is neglecting the Paralympic medal winners). The level of matches is equal whether it is Paralympics or Olympics. I just met Deepa Malik and she narrated her life story to me. Her story is very inspiring. Instead, I learned a lot from her,” she told PTI.

“She (Deepa Malik) bagged silver for India at this stage. They should be given equal level and the government is doing a lot for them. I have heard that they are being felicitated more than me and I am very happy,” Sakshi added.

Speaking about the reception of the people in the country following her Bronze medal win, Sakshi said, “I have been wrestling since 12 years. It was my dream to clinch a medal in the Olympics. But I hadn't expected that I will get so much (love and affection) after the medal. India is giving a lot of love. I had gone alone (to Rio Olympics), but now the entire country knows me. It is a proud moment for me.”

 However, emerging from a state like Haryana where rules are dictated by mad Khap Panchayats offering no freedom for the girl child, Sakshi has insisted on not to give in to what others say.

Sakshi said, “They do because the society taunts them too much. This happened with me, but I did not listen and continued. I say that there is no problems, whatever the world says, don’t care."