KIPG 2025 Spotlight: From Social Work Graduate to Internet Cafe Owner — Dipak Sargar’s Inspiring Journey

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"Participation is more important than winning" is a common phrase in para sports. However, for Dipak Chandrakant Sargar, a para table tennis player from Sangli district in Maharashtra, his story stands as a testament to resilience.

Diagnosed with Progressive Muscular Dystrophy (PMD), a neurological disorder that gradually limits mobility, Dipak faces the looming reality of becoming bedridden. Yet, instead of giving in, he has turned to sports to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Dipak is currently competing in the C1 category of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi, training under the guidance of Gautam Kulkarni and Harish Pujari. His love for table tennis has not only provided him with an outlet but has also become a source of immense joy and fulfillment.

A Battle with Progressive Muscular Dystrophy

Dipak's life changed at the age of six when he first noticed difficulties with movement. As Progressive Muscular Dystrophy progresses, it weakens muscles over time, leading to severe physical challenges. With over 30 types of the disorder, PMD has no known cure.

Despite the hardships, Dipak has faced his diagnosis with incredible strength. His family, particularly his mother, has been his unwavering support system. After the death of his father, she took charge of their family's flower shop in Sangli to sustain the household. His elder brother, who also has the same condition, has been a source of guidance and understanding.

"I was fully standing for 7-8 years. By the time I was in the 10th grade, I was experiencing significant difficulties. I couldn't walk even if I wanted to. When I turned 16, I started experiencing more difficulties. By the time I was 20, I was completely on a wheelchair. My elder brother also has the same illness, so I learned from him how to cope with it."

Yoga as a Source of Strength

When Dipak's physical challenges intensified, a friend suggested yoga to help him maintain his mental well-being. Despite the absence of a cure, practicing yoga helped him stay positive and mentally resilient.

"When my body started to abandon me, a friend suggested I should practice yoga. Since there is no cure for my illness, I thought yoga would help me stay mentally healthy. By doing this, I can keep myself away from depression. I want to stay happy and keep my mother happy as well."

Discovering Table Tennis

It was through his friends' encouragement that Dipak was introduced to table tennis. The sport quickly became a passion, bringing newfound confidence and purpose.

"I searched for a cure for my illness worldwide, but to no avail. Then, on my friends' advice, I started playing table tennis. I've been playing for almost a year now. Previously, I had played in ranking and national tournaments. The ranking tournament was held in Indore last November, and then the nationals were organized in Vadodara in March. I performed reasonably well in both tournaments, and based on these rankings, I got the opportunity to play in the Khelo India Para Games."

Embracing the Para Games Experience

Dipak's participation in the Khelo India Para Games has been a source of immense pride and joy. For him, the opportunity to travel to Delhi and compete on a national platform is a significant milestone.

"Coming to Delhi for the Khelo India Para Games has been an incredible opportunity I never thought possible. These few days of participation mean so much to me - being able to travel, compete, and experience something beyond my daily routine is truly special."

Dipak expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received from the government and the organizers of the Khelo India Para Games.

"I could never have afforded this journey on my own. The government and the Khelo India Para Games have provided not just facilities, but hope and a platform for athletes like me to showcase our potential."

Life Beyond the Sport

In addition to his sporting journey, Dipak holds a Master's degree in Social Work. Despite his physical challenges, he now runs an internet café with his brother in their village, Kotekhan. His physical limitations have grown severe, but his spirit remains undeterred.

"I know very well that in this illness, all body parts become weaker, and there comes a time when they completely stop working. Right now, I am 70% permanently disabled, but I don't know how quickly this will become 100%, and I will be completely bedridden. Today, I just want to live, and I am taking the support of sports for this."

Dipak's unwavering determination and positivity serve as an inspiration to many. His journey stands as a shining example of resilience, proving that life is not measured by limitations, but by the courage to overcome them.