Who is she? Biography, career, achievements, education and birthday party

Nithya Sre Sivan’s journey into the world of Para-Badminton is a remarkable story of determination, resilience and inspiration

From her early love of cricket to her admiration for Li Dan, and from the challenges that arose from her turn to classical dance to her later success in badminton, Nithya has demonstrated unwavering commitment to her dreams.

As she competes in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, she serves as a role model not only for aspiring athletes, but for anyone who dares to pursue their passion despite the odds. Her story reminds us that with determination and support, anything is possible.

Nithya also wants to give back to the sport that has given her so much. She hopes to inspire the next generation of para-badminton players, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.

By sharing her story and experiences, Nithya wants to encourage others to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles that stand in their way.

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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 sport.

In competition Category SH6Nithya has come a long way in her career, representing India at the highest level of competition. Her journey from a childhood filled with cricket dreams to the badminton courts of the Paralympics is a testament to her dedication, passion and indefatigable spirit.

Nithya’s story is about overcoming challenges and practicing a sport she fell in love with, thanks to an unexpected inspiration from the Olympic Games in Rio.

Thank you for your kind words and your blessing for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris @narendramodi Mr 💪🏻✨

— Nithya Sre Sivan (@07nithyasre) 19 August 2024

Early life and introduction to sport

Nithya’s early life in Hosur was heavily influenced by sports, especially cricket. Her brother was a district-level cricketer and her father was an avid fan of the game.

As a child, Nithya was often 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 path took an unexpected turn when she discovered badminton.

Nithya Sre Sivan: Career

The Olympic Games in Rio: A turning point

The 2016 Rio Olympics played a crucial role in Nithya’s future. It was at these games that she experienced badminton at an international level for the first time.

The rapid rallies, the athleticism of the players and the intense competition fascinated them. Among all the athletes, it was The Chinese Li Dan, two-time Olympic championwhich left a lasting impression on Nithya.

Li Dan’s journey of determination and excellence resonated with Nithya and sparked a new interest in badminton. From that moment on, she began to admire the sport and its players and gradually shifted her focus from cricket to badminton.

The influence of Li Dan

Li Dan’s influence on Nithya cannot be overstated. The Chinese badminton player’s success on the world stage and her unwavering commitment to the sport served as a source of inspiration for Nithya.

She saw Li Dan as a role model whose career she could understand and whom she wanted to emulate. Nithya’s admiration for Li Dan’s discipline, skills and successes fueled her desire to pursue badminton seriously.

This was the beginning of her journey into the world of para-badminton, a path that would eventually lead her to represent India on the world stage.

The obstacles: Classical dance instead of 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.

Her family’s decision was probably influenced by traditional expectations and the belief that dancing would be a suitable pursuit for her. However, Nithya’s heart was in badminton and she longed for the opportunity to play the sport she had grown to love so much.

The years of 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 finally got the chance to pursue badminton.

The transition from classical dance to badminton was not easy, but Nithya embraced it with enthusiasm. She began training rigorously, determined to make up for lost time.

Her early exposure to sports through cricket had already instilled in her a sense of discipline and competitiveness, which she now brought to badminton.

With each training session, she refined her skills and gradually transformed into an impressive para-badminton player.

Participation in 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 women’s doubles and the other in mixed doubles.

These victories were not only a personal achievement for Nithya but also a proud moment for Indian Para-Badminton.

Her success at the Asian Para Games cemented her position as one of the country’s top para-shuttlers and demonstrated her potential to shine on the international stage.

Category SH6: 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 skills but also the ability to adapt one’s technique to physical differences.

Nithya’s success in the SH6 category underlines her ability to overcome these challenges and perform at the highest level, and further underlines her resilience and determination.

Nithya Sre Sivan: Preparing for the Paralympics

With regard to the Paralympics 2024 in ParisNithya’s training program became even more intense.

Preparing for the Paralympics requires not only physical training but also mental strength.

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 and often lasted for hours, but Nithya remained focused on her goal. The support of her coaches, teammates and family played a major role in keeping her motivated and on track.

Participation in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris

When Nithya steps onto the field at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, she will carry the hopes and dreams of millions of Indians with her.

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 outcome of the Paralympics, Nithya’s story is already a victory – a testament to the power of perseverance, passion and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

Also read: Manisha Ramadass (Paralympics): Biography, Wiki, Career, Achievements, Training, Awards and more

Nithya Sre Sivan: Training under Gaurav Khanna

Nithya Sre Sivan recognized her potential and made the crucial decision to pursue further education.

During this time she learned Gaurav Khannathe head coach of the Indian Para-Badminton team. Known for his expertise in talent development and 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 move to Lucknow, where Khanna’s training academy was based. This move marked a significant turning point in her life, both personally and professionally.

However, Nithya was determined to make the most of this opportunity because she knew it could be the key to unlocking her full potential.

Nithya Sre Sivan: Birthday celebration

Nithya Sre Sivan shared a childhood photo with her elder brother and wished him a happy birthday.

Training under Gaurav Khanna: A new beginning

• Under the guidance of Gaurav Khanna, Nithya Sre Sivan’s training schedule underwent a complete transformation.
• Khanna’s coaching approach was holistic, focusing not only on improving her technical skills but also on increasing her mental and physical strength.
• The tough training sessions in Lucknow were exhausting, but Nithya took up the challenge with unwavering dedication.
• Khanna recognized Nithya’s potential early on and worked tirelessly to improve her game, introducing her to advanced techniques, tactical strategies and the importance of mental conditioning.
• The coach-athlete relationship between Khanna and Nithya was based on mutual respect and trust, with Khanna pushing her to push her limits while also providing her with the support she needed.
• Moving to Lucknow was a big change for Nithya Sre Sivan. The change in environment, climate and culture was challenging but Nithya considered it an essential step in her career.
• The facilities at Khanna’s academy were world-class, giving her access to top-notch training equipment, experienced sparring partners and a supportive ecosystem.
• The change also meant that Nithya had to get used to a new routine. The training sessions were intense, often starting early in the morning and lasting late into the evening.
• However, the structured environment allowed her to focus entirely on badminton, without distractions. Nithya’s time in Lucknow became a time of tremendous growth, both as an athlete and as a person.

Also read: Mandeep Kaur (Paralympics): Who is she? Biography, career, successes and reaching the quarter-finals