Torun, Poland - Bhagwani Devi Dagar, a 95-year-old athlete from Haryana's Khedka village, made India proud by bagging three gold medals in the Discus Throw event at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship in Torun, Poland.
The energetic athlete also won gold in shot put and discus throw in the 95-99 age group.
Bhagwani Devi's impressive display of athleticism did not go unnoticed. Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur congratulated her on her win and tweeted, and tweeted, “What an inspiration! Our #NaariShakti never fails to make us proud. Kudos to 95 years old Bhagwani Devi ji for winning 3 gold medals in the 9th World Master Athletics Indoor Championships. Your champion mentality is a true testament of Fit India."
Bhagwani Devi's journey to becoming a world champion despite facing numerous personal struggles throughout her life, including the loss of her husband and two children is quite an inspiration.
She was married at the young age of 12 and faced numerous personal struggles throughout her life. Her husband passed away when she was only 30, leaving her to raise their two children on her own. Unfortunately, her eight-year-old daughter also passed away prematurely, leaving her with only her toddler son to care for.
Despite these tragedies, Bhagwani Devi refused to give up and instead focused on supporting her family. Her efforts eventually paid off when her son secured a job as a clerk in the Delhi Municipal Council.
Her grandson, Vikas Dagar, also followed in her footsteps and became a successful para-athlete, representing India in various competitions, including the Asian Games. He has won numerous awards and has been awarded the prestigious Khel Ratna award. Vikas is an inspiration to many, and his success shows that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Bhagwani Devi's success in athletics is particularly impressive, she has shown that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. Her message to the world is that age is just a number and that with the right attitude and determination, anything is possible.