Nithya Sre Sivan’s journey in the world of para-badminton is a remarkable story of determination, resilience, and inspiration
From her early love for cricket to her admiration for Li Dan, and from the challenges of being steered towards classical dance to her eventual success in badminton, Nithya has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her dreams.
As she competes at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she serves as a role model not just for aspiring athletes but for anyone who dares to pursue their passion against all odds. Her story reminds us that with determination and support, anything is possible.
Nithya is also keen on giving back to the sport that has given her so much. She hopes to inspire the next generation of para-badminton players, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.
By sharing her story and experiences, Nithya wants to encourage others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
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Table of Contents
Nithya Sre Sivan: Who Is She?
Nithya Sre Sivan, an Indian para-badminton player, has quickly become a beacon of inspiration and resilience in the world of sports.1
Competing in the SH6 category, Nithya has made significant strides in her career, representing India at the highest levels of competition. Her journey from a childhood filled with dreams of cricket to the badminton courts of the Paralympics is a testament to her dedication, passion, and unyielding spirit.
Born in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, Nithya’s story is one of overcoming challenges and pursuing a sport she fell in love with, thanks to an unexpected inspiration from the Rio Olympics.
Thank you so much for your lovely words and blessings for Paris Paralympics 2024 @narendramodi Sir💪🏻✨ https://t.co/gsOlcRM5ir
— Nithya Sre Sivan (@07nithyasre) August 19, 2024
Early Life and Introduction to Sports
Nithya’s early life in Hosur was deeply influenced by sports, particularly cricket. Her brother was a district-level cricket player, and her father was an avid fan of the game.
As a child, Nithya would often find herself engrossed in cricket matches, either watching them on television with her father or playing with her brother.
Cricket was her first love, and like many Indian children, she dreamed of making it big in the sport. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was introduced to badminton.
Nithya Sre Sivan: Career
The Rio Olympics: A Turning Point
The 2016 Rio Olympics played a pivotal role in shaping Nithya’s future. It was during these games that she first witnessed the sport of badminton at an international level.2
The fast-paced rallies, the sheer athleticism of the players, and the intense competition captivated her. Among all the athletes, it was China’s Li Dan, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, who left a lasting impression on Nithya.
Li Dan’s journey, marked by determination and excellence, resonated with Nithya and sparked a newfound interest in badminton. From that moment on, she began to admire the sport and its players, gradually shifting her focus from cricket to badminton.
The Influence of Li Dan
Li Dan’s influence on Nithya cannot be overstated. The Chinese shuttler’s success on the global stage and her unwavering commitment to the sport served as a source of inspiration for Nithya.
She saw in Li Dan a role model whose journey she could relate to and aspire to emulate. Nithya’s admiration for Li Dan’s discipline, skill, and achievements fueled her desire to take up badminton seriously.
This marked the beginning of her journey into the world of para-badminton, a path that would eventually lead her to represent India on the global stage.
The Roadblocks: Classical Dance over Badminton
Despite her growing interest in badminton, Nithya’s initial path was not straightforward. While her brother was enrolled in a badminton academy, Nithya was sent to a classical dance school to learn Bharatanatyam.
This decision, made by her family, was likely influenced by traditional expectations and the belief that dance would be a suitable pursuit for her. However, Nithya’s heart was set on badminton, and she found herself yearning for the chance to play the sport she had come to love.
The years spent in Bharatanatyam classes were challenging for Nithya, as she patiently waited for the opportunity to switch to badminton.
The Long-Awaited Opportunity
After what seemed like an eternity, Nithya’s persistence paid off, and she was finally given the chance to pursue badminton.
The transition from classical dance to badminton was not easy, but Nithya embraced it with enthusiasm. She started training rigorously, determined to make up for the lost time.
Her early exposure to sports through cricket had already instilled in her a sense of discipline and competitiveness, which she now channeled into badminton.
With each practice session, she honed her skills, gradually transforming herself into a formidable para-badminton player.
Competing at the Asian Para Games 2022
One of the major milestones in Nithya’s career came in 2022 when she represented India at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China.
Competing in the SH6 category, Nithya proved her mettle by securing two bronze medals—one in the women’s doubles and the other in the mixed doubles events.
These victories were not just a personal achievement for Nithya but also a proud moment for Indian para-badminton.
Her success at the Asian Para Games solidified her position as one of the top para-shuttlers in the country and showcased her potential to excel on the international stage.
The SH6 Category: Understanding the Classification
To fully appreciate Nithya’s achievements, it is important to understand the SH6 classification in para-badminton.
The SH6 category is for athletes with short stature, a condition often caused by achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism.
Competing in this category requires not only exceptional skill but also the ability to adapt one’s technique to accommodate physical differences.
Nithya’s success in the SH6 category highlights her ability to overcome these challenges and perform at the highest level, further underscoring her resilience and determination.
Nithya Sre Sivan: Preparation for the Paralympics
With her sights set on the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Nithya’s training regimen became even more intense.3
Preparing for the Paralympics requires not just physical training but also mental fortitude.
Nithya worked closely with her coaches to refine her technique, improve her agility, and develop strategies tailored to her opponents.
Her training sessions were grueling, often stretching for hours each day, but Nithya remained focused on her goal. The support of her coaches, teammates, and family played a vital role in keeping her motivated and on track.
Competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
As Nithya steps onto the courts at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of millions of Indians.
Her journey from a young girl with a passion for cricket to an elite para-badminton player competing on the world stage is nothing short of inspirational.
Regardless of the outcomes at the Paralympics, Nithya’s story is already a victory—a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
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Nithya Sre Sivan: Training Under Gaurav Khanna
Recognizing her potential, Nithya Sre Sivan made the pivotal decision to seek advanced training.
It was during this time that she was introduced to Gaurav Khanna, the head coach of the Indian para-badminton team. Known for his expertise in nurturing talent and his deep understanding of the sport, Khanna was the perfect mentor to guide Nithya on her journey.
The decision to train under Gaurav Khanna was not an easy one. It required Nithya to leave her home in Tamil Nadu and relocate to Lucknow, where Khanna’s training academy was based. This move marked a significant shift in her life, both personally and professionally.
However, Nithya was determined to make the most of this opportunity, knowing that it could be the key to unlocking her full potential.
Nithya Sre Sivan: Birthday Celebration
Nithya Sre Sivan shared her childhood picture with her elder brother and wishing him on his birthday.
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Training Under Gaurav Khanna: A New Beginning
- Under the guidance of Gaurav Khanna, Nithya Sre Sivan’s training regimen underwent a complete transformation.
- Khanna’s approach to coaching was holistic, focusing not just on improving her technical skills but also on enhancing her mental and physical strength.
- The rigorous training sessions in Lucknow were demanding, but Nithya embraced the challenge with unwavering dedication.
- Khanna recognized Nithya’s potential early on and worked tirelessly to refine her game. He introduced her to advanced techniques, tactical strategies, and the importance of mental conditioning.
- The coach-athlete relationship between Khanna and Nithya was built on mutual respect and trust, with Khanna pushing her to surpass her limits while also providing the necessary support.
- Relocating to Lucknow was a major adjustment for Nithya Sre Sivan. The change in environment, climate, and culture posed challenges, but Nithya viewed it as an essential step in her career.
- The facilities at Khanna’s academy were world-class, offering her access to top-notch training equipment, experienced sparring partners, and a supportive ecosystem.
- The shift also meant that Nithya had to adapt to a new routine. The training sessions were intense, often starting early in the morning and extending late into the evening.
- However, the structured environment allowed her to focus entirely on badminton, free from distractions. Nithya’s time in Lucknow became a period of immense growth, both as an athlete and as an individual.
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