From being mocked for his height to achieving Paralympic gold, income tax inspector Navdeep Singh is an inspiration

The Indian team set an incredible record by capturing seven gold medals at the 2024 Paralympic Games. Navdeep Singh was one of the star competitors, winning the nation's sixth gold medal in the Men's Javelin Throw F41 event. His victory was especially significant, as it represented years of hard work and dedication.

Navdeep's victory demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his sport, having previously missed out on competing in the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago and the Asian Para Games the following year. At only 24 years old, his efforts had finally been recognized on such a renowned platform.

Navdeep spoke about his path at the Zee News Real Heroes Awards, revealing that he began as a state-level wrestling champion before transitioning to javelin throwing. Born in 2000 in Panipat, Haryana, his path to stardom was anything but smooth. He was diagnosed with dwarfism when he was two years old and has faced derision and discrimination ever since.

“I was a wrestler in the beginning, but I had to quit due to a back injury. Then I was watching YouTube and there I saw an article "Panipat boy did wonders, broke world record." That was Neeraj Chopra Bhai Sahab's video. He had made a junior record in 2016. Then I thought that if someone is making a world record by throwing javelin in Panipat too, then I should also start. Then I participated in Javelin in Para in 2017. After seeing him, my hard work also paid off”, Navdeep said.

“I had finished fourth two or three times in the Para Asian Games, Tokyo Paralympics, and Para World Championship. So I was tagged as a loser and if you have come fourth three times, you do not have the ability. You can change the game. But I knew that the flaw was in me and I had to improve. Everyone will applaud me later. I was a little patient when I set the target. In this way, I removed that loser tag”, he added.

Navdeep began his athletic career when he was 10 years old, and he made his international debut in the 2017 Asian Youth Para Games in Dubai, where he won the gold medal.

When questioned about the length of the javelin, Navdeep responded, “Sir, you are thinking that the weight of the body is involved, but I used to face the problem that I was small and it used to touch the ground. In reality, it was much bigger than me, then I changed my technique and the coach scolded me. Then I worked hard and improved. After training repeatedly, the result was that the javelin touches the front and not the back.”

Sports have always played an important role in Navdeep's life. His father, a former national-level wrestler, instilled in him a desire to compete from an early age. Navdeep initially established a name for himself in 2017 by winning gold at the Asian Youth Para Games. Since then, he has established an amazing track record, winning five national gold medals, demonstrating his talent and dedication to his sport.

Navdeep's achievements extend beyond his home nation. He has made an impression on the world stage, winning gold in the World Para Grand Prix in 2021 and a bronze medal at the World Championships 2024. These achievements demonstrate his ability and will to thrive despite adversity.

At only 24 years old, Navdeep has overcome tremendous obstacles such as poverty, disability, and prejudice, yet he has continued to persevere and proudly represent India. His story is an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of tenacity and hard work in the pursuit of achievement. Navdeep's tale exemplifies the human spirit and ability to overcome adversity, making him a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.

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