Pratima Bondey was attacked by polio when she was 9 months old. Since then, it has been a long journey- a journey of disability that was overcome by the success of winning against it.  

Seeking a way to rise beyond her disability, Pratima Bondey discovered para sports. In that world, she found not just relief but purpose.

As per Pratima, sports taught her to be disciplined, hardworking, and patient. “It is from sport that I learnt how to set targets and achieve goals,” said Pratima.

Pratima Bondey is now a para powerlifter at the international level. She won 8 National Championships medals and 1 gold, and 1 silver in the Khelo India Para Games.

“It was my mother who showed tremendous faith in me. She was the one who motivated me to take up sports. I lost her to cancer, but she is always present with me,” Pratima remembers.

Pratima’s Guru, Dronacharya Award winner, Vijay Munishwar, played a very important role in making her believe that she is not disabled but differently abled. A mentor to world-class para powerlifters, Vijay Munishwar instilled a sense of self-confidence in her. 

Bondey has represented India in the 2025 Para World Cup in China and the 2025 Para World Championships in Egypt. “It is always a dream for any athlete to represent the country. I am proud to represent India and am very happy for that,” exclaimed Pratima. 

With this spirit, Pratima Bondey transforms every challenge into a new beginning. She is not just an athlete, but a living proof of how sport can reshape life, especially for para athletes who dare to dream.