From Bullying to Bronze: Paralympic Shuttler Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan’s Triumphant Journey
Paralympic bronze medalist nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan, poised to receive the prestigious arjuna Award, vividly recalls the painful days of her youth marred by relentless bullying. Now a celebrated badminton player at the age of 19, she views this esteemed recognition as a fitting response to those challenging times.
“During my elementary school years,I faced significant physical challenges and was often the target of bullying,” Nithya shared with PTI. “The constant negativity deeply affected me, leaving me feeling dejected and vulnerable. This award serves as a powerful testament to my resilience and ability to overcome adversity.”
The Arjuna Award, one of India’s highest sporting honors, holds immense significance for Nithya. Witnessing her fellow athletes achieve similar accolades fueled her ambition, making this recognition a deeply personal triumph.
“Observing the success of my peers inspired me to strive for excellence,” she explained. ”receiving this national award is an remarkable honor, a validation of my unwavering commitment, tireless practise, and disciplined approach to the sport.”
Hailing from Hosur, Tamil Nadu, Nithya’s journey has been shaped by the unwavering support of her family. Losing her mother at a tender age, she found solace and strength in the love of her father, grandmother, and brother.
badminton became Nithya’s sanctuary, a path to liberation and self-expression. initially a recluse, she blossomed on the court, finding her voice and confidence.
“my father, a passionate sports enthusiast, encouraged me to embrace badminton as a means to break free from my introverted nature,” Nithya revealed. “The sport has been transformative, empowering me to connect with others and express myself freely. Before badminton, I was incredibly shy and reserved.”
Nithya’s initial love for cricket was hindered by the lack of opportunities for female athletes. Inspired by the Rio Olympics, she discovered badminton and quickly excelled, securing three bronze medals at the 2022 Asian Para Games.
her story is a testament to the power of perseverance,family support,and the transformative nature of sports. Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan’s journey from bullying victim to Paralympic medalist is an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
From Casual Play to Paralympic Dreams: Nithya Sre Sivan’s Badminton Journey
Nithya Sre sivan’s path to becoming a Paralympic badminton champion began with a simple game of badminton in the streets. Inspired by the achievements of P.V. Sindhu in the 2016 Olympics, Nithya and her friends picked up rackets, igniting a passion that would soon consume her.Initially, badminton was a recreational activity, with Nithya practicing twice a week.However, her dedication quickly grew, and she soon found herself training daily. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted her progress,but Nithya’s determination remained undeterred.Upon resuming training, Nithya discovered the world of Para badminton, a revelation that would change the course of her athletic journey. Seeking expert guidance, she relocated to Lucknow to train under Gaurav khanna, the Head Coach of the Indian para Badminton team.
Today,Nithya continues to hone her skills at the prestigious prakash Padukone Badminton Academy (PPBA),drawn to its proximity to her hometown. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of sport, showcasing how a casual pastime can evolve into a path towards Paralympic glory.
Nithya’s journey mirrors the growing popularity of para badminton, a sport that has witnessed a surge in participation and recognition in recent years. The success of Indian Para badminton players at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, where they secured multiple medals, has further fueled this momentum. With athletes like Nithya leading the charge, Para badminton is poised to continue its upward trajectory, inspiring countless others to embrace the sport and pursue their own Paralympic dreams.Inspired by badminton legend Lin Dan, Nithya embarked on her Para-Badminton journey in 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world. She made her international debut in 2021 and has as set her sights on the pinnacle of the sport.
With the 2025 Asian Championship looming large as a crucial Paralympic event, Nithya is laser-focused on her long-term goal: peaking at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games. She views each upcoming World Championship as a stepping stone on this path, prioritizing consistent enhancement and performance.
Recently, a debate erupted when two-time Paralympic bronze medalist shooter Manu Bhaker’s name was initially omitted from the national award nominations due to a procedural oversight.
When asked about this controversy, Nithya expressed her belief that athletes’ contributions should be recognized proactively by the government, without the need for self-nomination.
“I was taken aback when my team informed me about the request process for a national award,” Nithya shared. “I was under the impression that the government would automatically acknowledge and honor athletes’ achievements.”
Highlighting the government’s extensive support for athletes, including tournament participation and training, Nithya emphasized that this support should naturally extend to recognizing their accomplishments.
from Bullying to Bronze: Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan – A Triumph of Spirit and Skill
Nithya Sre Sumathy sivan’s journey is not just another sports success story; it’s a testament to the transformative power of sport and the unwavering human spirit.This young athlete’s path, from facing childhood bullying to securing a Paralympic bronze medal and the prestigious arjuna Award, serves as an inspiration to us all.
Nithya’s story resonates deeply as it reflects a global struggle. The pain of bullying,especially during vulnerable childhood years,can leave lasting scars. Though, Nithya’s resilience is truly remarkable. She transformed her pain into fuel,channeling her energy into badminton,a sport that not only honed her physical prowess but also provided an outlet for self-expression and confidence.
Her success is not merely a product of individual talent. Nithya acknowledges the crucial role her family played in her journey. The loss of her mother at a young age could have been a devastating setback, but the unwavering support of her father, grandmother, and brother provided a bedrock of love and encouragement. Her father,recognizing her introverted nature,wisely encouraged her to take up badminton,a decision that proved pivotal in shaping her into the confident athlete she is today.
Nithya’s story also highlights the importance of role models and portrayal in sports. Witnessing the success of other athletes fueled her own ambition, proving that achievement was within reach. The Arjuna Award, a recognition of her outstanding achievements and dedication, not only validates her hard work but also serves as a powerful message for aspiring athletes, notably young girls, that their dreams are attainable with perseverance and passion.
Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan’s journey reminds us that sport is more than just competition; it’s about personal growth, resilience, and the ability to overcome adversity. It’s about finding your voice, discovering your strength, and inspiring others along the way. Her story is a powerful reminder that within each of us lies the potential for greatness, waiting to be nurtured through dedication, support, and a belief in ourselves.
