HarperCollins Announces Dr. Deepa Malik’s Memoir: BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life
HarperCollins India has announced the forthcoming release of BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life, an autobiography penned by Dr. Deepa Malik, India’s most renowned para-athlete. This memoir promises to offer readers an unvarnished glimpse into her extraordinary life, highlighting her indomitable spirit, unwavering determination, and countless victories over formidable challenges.
About the Author: Dr. Deepa Malik
India’s First Female Paralympic Medalist
Dr. Deepa Malik is a trailblazer in Indian sports, achieving iconic status as the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal. She etched her name into history by claiming a silver medal in shot put at the 2016 Rio Paralympics. Her illustrious career as a para-athlete is adorned with 23 international medals, showcasing her excellence on the global stage. In recognition of her contributions to sports, she has been honored with several prestigious accolades, including:
- Padma Shri
- Khel Ratna Award
- Arjuna Award
A Multi-Talented Icon
Dr. Malik’s achievements extend beyond athletics. She is a pioneer in multiple fields, including swimming, biking, and car rallying, despite being paraplegic. Her feats have earned her four Limca World Records, underscoring her belief that physical limitations cannot restrict human potential.
Advocate and Leader in Para Sports
As a passionate advocate for para-sports, Dr. Malik has held several groundbreaking leadership roles:
- She served as the first female president of the Paralympic Committee of India.
- She is the South Asian representative on the executive board of the Asian Paralympic Committee, making her the first Indian woman and former para-athlete to hold this esteemed position.
Honors and Recognition
Dr. Malik’s dedication to sports and society has earned her several distinguished accolades:
- Asian Order, the highest honor in para-sports within Asia.
- Three honorary doctorates for her contributions to empowering the differently abled and advancing sports.
About the Book: BRING IT ON
A Manifesto of Courage
BRING IT ON is not merely a memoir; it is a testament to resilience, courage, and hope. Dr. Malik offers a candid account of her life, revealing the depth of her mental strength and the unyielding spirit that has guided her through life’s challenges.
A Journey of Triumph
The book details her struggles and victories, recounting significant life events such as:
- Battling spinal tumors three times, an ordeal that left her paralyzed from the waist down.
- Facing societal stigma and gender-based prejudices while challenging patriarchal norms.
- Overcoming political and bureaucratic hurdles in sports, often facing resistance to change.
Through her narrative, Dr. Malik redefines disability as “wheelchair-liberated” rather than “wheelchair-bound,” demonstrating how her wheelchair symbolizes freedom and opportunity rather than limitation.
Themes Explored in the Memoir
Triumph Over Adversity
Dr. Malik’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. She exemplifies how challenges can be overcome with determination, transforming the word “impossible” into “just an opinion.”
Breaking Stereotypes
Her memoir challenges deeply entrenched societal norms, proving that women—especially differently abled women—can excel in any field they pursue.
An Inspirational Life
Dr. Malik’s journey serves as a universal inspiration. Her narrative will resonate with readers across all walks of life, motivating them to face their challenges head-on and emerge victorious.
Philosophy Highlights
Dr. Malik’s life and philosophy center around resilience, determination, and the power of a positive mindset.
From Bound to Liberated
She reframes the narrative surrounding disability, emphasizing that the only true limitations are those imposed by the mind.
A Visionary for Possibilities
Her life is a testament to what can be achieved with grit, vision, and perseverance. She proves that opportunities can emerge even in the face of adversity.
Mental Fortitude
The memoir provides insight into the mental strength required to navigate the world of para-sports, where the challenges are often compounded by societal and institutional biases.
Why BRING IT ON is a Must-Read
Dr. Malik’s memoir is an empowering read for anyone seeking inspiration, hope, and courage.
- Life Lessons: The book is rich with transformative lessons on overcoming challenges and embracing resilience.
- Challenging Norms: It confronts stereotypes, urging readers to broaden their perspectives on ability, gender, and success.
- Unwavering Resilience: Dr. Malik’s story is a guide for anyone striving to navigate life’s hardships with grace and determination.
Summary of the News
| Category | Details |
| Why in News | HarperCollins India announces the release of BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life. |
| Author | Dr. Deepa Malik: India’s most celebrated para-athlete and first female Paralympic medalist. |
| Achievements | Silver at 2016 Rio Paralympics, 23 international medals, Padma Shri, Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award. |
| Multi-Talented | Paraplegic swimmer, biker, rallyist; holder of 4 Limca World Records. |
| Leadership Roles | First female president of PCI; South Asian representative on APC executive board. |
| Additional Honors | Asian Order, three honorary doctorates for societal contributions. |
| Themes | Overcoming adversity, breaking stereotypes, redefining narratives around disability. |
| Why Read | Inspirational, stereotype-challenging, and resilience-focused narrative for all readers. |
Dr. Deepa Malik’s memoir is more than a book—it’s a beacon of hope, urging readers to embrace challenges as stepping stones to success.
