In a sport where physical strength and mental resilience are paramount, Jaspreet Kaur's story is a  proof to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. From being an overweight software engineer to breaking powerlifting records at the Khelo India Para Games 2025, Jaspreet's journey is an inspiration to millions. Jaspreet Kaur's remarkable journey is also marked by her resilience in the face of physical adversity. Struck by polio at the age of three, she walks with the help of callipers and lives with a tilted spine that affects her balance. Despite these challenges, Jaspreet has found incredible success in powerlifting, competing in the para-sports category where she has become a record-breaking athlete, inspiring countless others with her determination and strength.

A Wake-Up Call

Jaspreet's journey began in 2020, when she weighed 80kg and was diagnosed with a lower spine issue.

Doctors warned her that if she didn't lose weight, she risked being wheelchair-bound.

This wake-up call prompted Jaspreet to embark on a weight loss journey that would change her life forever.

Over the course of one and a half years, Jaspreet relied on a disciplined diet to transform her body. She cut out fast food and sugar, drank warm water twice a day, and ensured proper nutrition with desi ghee and four meals daily. Her hard work paid off, and she lost an impressive 40kg.

Discovering Powerlifting

It wasn't until the end of 2022 that Jaspreet stumbled upon Paralympics while reading newspapers. Inspired by the achievements of fellow Punjab-based para-powerlifters, she decided to give the sport a shot. With no prior experience, Jaspreet called up Rajinder Singh Rahelu and Paramjeet Kumar, seeking guidance and advice.

Jaspreet's first nationals in 2022 were a revelation. She lifted 70kg and clinched gold, earning a spot at the prestigious Sports Authority of India National Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar. Under the expert guidance of Arjuna Award-winning coach Rajinder Singh Rahelu, Jaspreet honed her technique and strength, steadily improving to lift over twice her body weight within three years.

Competing in the 45kg category at the Khelo India Para Games 2025, Jaspreet set a new national record in powerlifting, lifting an incredible 101kg. This achievement was made all the more remarkable by the fact that she had surpassed her own previous best of 100kg, recorded just a week earlier at the nationals.

Aiming for the Paralympics

Jaspreet's ultimate goal is to win a medal for India at the LA 2028 Paralympics. With her sights set on the biggest stage in para-sports, Jaspreet is more determined than ever to push herself to new heights. 

"The game has chosen me, rather than me choosing the game," she said. “My weight loss gave me powerlifting, and powerlifting gave me confidence.”

Jaspreet's story is an inspiration to millions, showing that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. From being an overweight software engineer to becoming a record-breaking powerlifter, Jaspreet's journey is an example  to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. As she continues to push herself to new heights, Jaspreet Kaur is a role model for anyone looking to transform their life and achieve their dreams.