BEYOND BARRIERS

Jyoti Gederiya, a para-cyclist from Nagpur, Maharashtra, has turned adversity into triumph. Despite losing her left leg, she has claimed 14 international gold medals, proving that determination knows no limits. Her journey is a testament to courage, relentless hard work, and an unshakable spirit

- MILIND DHAMDHERE

For many, a disability might mean the end of an active sporting life, but for Jyoti, it was the beginning of a new challenge. Instead of dwelling on her limitations, she embraced them as an opportunity to prove her mettle. Competing against some of the best para-athletes in the world, Jyoti has continuously pushed boundaries to achieve what many consider impossible. She recently bagged two consecutive gold medals at the Asian Championships, cementing her status as one of India’s finest para-cyclists. Her timing of 39 minutes in the road race event is the best-recorded performance in the last three years—a feat that speaks volumes about her dedication and preparation.

Before the championship, Jyoti rigorously trained on the competition track for five days, studying every turn and incline to perfect her strategy. This meticulous preparation played a crucial role in her triumph. Her hard work and determination also saw her qualify for the Paris Paralympic Games, where, despite missing out on a podium finish, she showcased her immense potential. With the experience gained, she is now gearing up for the next edition of the Paralympic Games, determined to bring home a medal.

A journey of resilience

Born in the small village of Dongargaon in Mohadi taluka of Bhandara district, 27-year-old Jyoti hails from a humble background. Her parents, agricultural labourers, struggled to make ends meet, yet they always supported their daughter’s aspirations. As a young girl, Jyoti was an avid sports enthusiast, actively participating in Kabaddi during her school and college years. She even represented Maharashtra at the national level before her life took an unexpected turn due to her disability. But rather than giving up, she found new hope in para-cycling and turned adversity into an opportunity to excel.