Balotra. Rajasthan’s mermaid Sita Devi has overcome every difficult wave of life with courage. Even the bout of polio he suffered at the age of three could not stop his steps. By making water his companion since childhood, he soared such that today he has 23 medals in his name. Sita, daughter of Omaram Mali, a resident of Bagawas of Balotra district, got polio in her leg at the age of just three years due to an injection given during high fever. Despite this, his passion for sports kept burning within him since childhood and this passion took him to make a name for Rajasthan in para swimming.
Stay away from sports for 10 years after marriage, then a new beginning
Sita studied from Sucheta Kripalani Shiksha Niketan Mankalav, Jodhpur from primary education to graduation. In the year 2011, she got married to Mehararam, a resident of Newai. After marriage, due to family responsibilities, she stayed away from sports for about 10 years. During this time, her friend Nirmala Chauhan inspired her to return to sports again. When Sita entered the swimming pool again after a long gap, there were many challenges but her passion was the same as before.
People’s taunts became heavy, life changed when husband supported her
Sita tells that when she started swimming again, people taunted her that what will you play now, take care of the house and children. But her husband Meharam remained her biggest support. He said that no matter what people say, you should focus on your game. This support gave a new flight to Sita and she decided that she would prove herself again.
Family support and dream of winning a medal for India
Sita gives the biggest credit for her success to her mother-in-law, who always stood by her. She says that my dream is to get a government job and win a medal for India and hoist the tricolor high. Husband Mehararam runs a grocery shop and encourages her in every difficult time. It was a challenge to balance two twins, family and sports, but Sita left every obstacle behind and moved towards her goal.
Sita started her journey in the year 2021 with one silver and one bronze medal at the state level. In the year 2022, won 3 gold in the state competition and 1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze in the national competition in Guwahati. In the year 2023, won 3 Gold in State and 1 Bronze in National Gwalior. In the year 2024, won 3 gold at the state level and 1 silver and 1 bronze at the national level. By winning 3 gold in the Sikar State Competition in the year 2025 and 1 bronze in the recent National Championship, his medal collection has reached 23.
Sita Devi is an inspiration for the entire state today. His struggle, his courage and his passion are an example for every child and candidate who wants to make his dreams come true despite difficulties.
