Rio Paralympics silver medalist Deepa Malik inspires Sakshi Malik

Rio Olympics Bronze medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik today termed the life story of para-athlete Deepa Malik as inspiring.

Last week, Deepa Malik created history by becoming the first Indian woman to bag a medal at the Paralympic Games. She won a silver in the shot put F-53 event.

"No that is not the fact government is neglecting the Paralympic medal winners. The level of matches is equal whether it is Paralympics or Olympics. I just met Deepa Malik and she narrated her life story to me. Her story is very inspiring. Instead, I learned a lot from her," Sakshi told a gathering at a promotional event.

"She (Deepa Malik) bagged a silver for India at this stage. They should be given an equal level and the government is doing a lot for them. I have heard that they are being felicitated more than me and I am very happy," she said.

Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha was also present on the occasion.

"I have been wrestling since 12 years. It was my dream to clinch a medal in the Olympics. But I hadn't expected that I will get so much (love and affection) after the medal. India is giving a lot of love. I had gone alone (to Rio Olympics), but now the entire country knows me. It is a proud moment for me," Sakshi added.

Asked about a survey figure that 6 out of 10 girls becomes less involved in sports activities on reaching puberty, Sakshi said, "They do because the society taunts them too much. This happened with me, but I did not listen and continued. I say that there is no problem, whatever the world says, don't care."