India, Oct. 21 -- Para-athlete Deepthi Jeevanji, 23, has struck gold at the ongoing Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, clocking a Games record of 56.36 seconds in the women's 400m T20 event. For the athlete from Telangana's Kalleda village, who once faced taunts over her intellectual impairment, the victory means much more than a medal. "There was a time when me and my family faced negativity and were called names because of my impairment. But ever since I made a name for myself, everything has changed. Now, everyone talks to us with respect and that inspires me," says Deepthi, whose parents worked as daily-wage labourers. The Paris 2024 Paralympics bronze medallist, who defended her Asian Para Games title, adds, "I felt happy to hear our National Anthem play, knowing I brought joy and pride to my country." Deepthi's journey began in 2018, when para-athletics coach Satyanarayana spotted her potential. "The moment I watched Deepthi train, I knew she would do wonders," says the coach. Her success on the international stage has since inspired her to help other young athletes overcome similar challenges. "I want to help India discover and nurture a new generation of talented athletes," she says. For now, her family remains her priority. She says, "Bringing financial stability to my family means everything to me."...