**Hyderabad, India** — Once cruelly nicknamed “Monkey” and “Mental” by her village, Deepthi Jeevanji’s homecoming at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport was nothing short of a hero’s welcome. The para-athlete from Kalleda village in Warangal, Telangana, returned with a bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Paralympics, earning admiration and respect from across the nation.Deepthi, a 20-year-old para-athlete, achieved her remarkable feat by securing third place in the women’s 400m T20 final, clocking 55.82 seconds. Her performance, alongside Yuliia Shuliar of Ukraine and world-record holder Aysel Onder of Turkey, marked a major moment for India, bringing home its 16th medal of the games.However, Deepthi’s journey was far from easy. Born with an intellectual disability, she endured years of ridicule in her village, where cruel taunts and hurtful nicknames were part of her daily life. Her parents, Jeevanji Yadhagiri and Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, recall the tough times. “People suggested we send her to an orphanage,” Dhanalaxmi recounted, explaining the cruel comments about their daughter’s physical appearance and cognitive challenges. “But she proved she’s truly special,” her mother proudly added.Defying the odds, Deepthi’s sheer determination and unwavering family support helped her rise above the challenges. Before her triumph in Paris, she made history as the first Indian woman to win gold at the World Athletics Para Championship in Kobe, Japan. Her athletic achievements have since cemented her status as a world-class competitor, and her Paris performance has solidified her place as an inspiration for millions.Upon her arrival in Hyderabad, crowds gathered to celebrate her victory, chanting her name and waving the Indian flag. Her success symbolizes not only a personal triumph over adversity but also a momentous achievement in India’s Paralympic journey.Deepthi’s story of perseverance, from being mocked in her village to standing on the podium at the Paralympics, stands as a reminder of the power of resilience and the impact of support and belief.