Born with dwarfism, Mumbai-based para athlete and para badminton player Mark Dharmai, who ranks third in the world in doubles, has proven that determination matters more than circumstance

MARIA FERNANDES | NT

Mumbai-based para athlete and para badminton player Mark Dharmai has a story that goes beyond sporting achievement. Since making his Paralympic debut in 2004, there has been no turning back, and he today ranks third in the world in doubles.

Born with dwarfism, Dharmai refused to allow his stature to define his potential. Instead, through sport he found confidence, freedom, and a sense of purpose.

“I grew up in a sports-loving family, so athletics was always a big part of my life. You could say sports were in my genes,” he recalls. As a schoolboy, he participated in a variety of sports, but badminton quickly became his favourite. He spent countless hours playing with friends on the streets of Chimbai, Bandra.

However, as he grew older, the challenges became tougher. In team sports like football and hockey, there were times he was asked to sit out because of physical differences. “I believed I belonged on the field, so those moments were traumatic, but it built my spirit and that has helped me a lot,” he shares.

The desire to prove himself became an integral part of his life. During a rehabilitation period, he was introduced to para badminton. What started as an experiment soon became a calling. But being a dwarf athlete in a demanding sport came with its own unique challenges; he needed extra speed, stamina, and sharper skills. “My movements had to be more precise and footwork even better. It was extremely challenging but very satisfying as well,” he recalls.

The challenges were not limited to the badminton court alone. From equipment not always suited to his needs, to financial constraints, he had to contend with a lot. “The biggest challenge was dealing with people’s perceptions and proving that I was capable,” he shares.

During difficult times, Dharmai focused on gradual, consistent progress and remained unwavering in his commitment to training. “Every setback became a source of motivation for me. I remained determined and believed that persistence and hard work would eventually help me rise above every challenge,” he says.

When asked about the proudest moment of his career, Dharmai says it is winning his first bronze medal at the 2023 World Championships in Germany. Standing on the podium among the world’s best athletes was an emotional and defining moment. “With the national flag behind me, every sacrifice felt worthwhile. The medal boosted my confidence and inspired me to represent India with greater pride,” he says.

Today, discipline and dedication form the foundation of his life. Rigorous training and recovery routines are all part of his day, but it is his mental resilience, the ability to stay focused and overcome setbacks, that truly sets him apart.

Supporting him throughout this journey has been a close-knit circle of coaches, family, friends, mentors and his community, with his mother playing a particularly significant role. “She has been my backbone, guiding me, supporting me and standing by me unconditionally through every step,” he says.

Dharmai’s ambitions extend beyond personal achievement. He hopes to inspire and mentor others, especially individuals from the dwarf and disability communities, encouraging them to look beyond limitations and pursue their dreams with confidence. He believes true success goes beyond medals.