Impact story · Belagavi district
Ajit Padasalagi
Bowler · With DMSA since 2021
A Belagavi bowler finds purpose and recognition
Growing up in Belagavi under difficult economic conditions, Ajit Padasalagi faced stress and limited opportunities. Discovering wheelchair cricket in 2021 opened the door to competitive sport, teamwork and recognition.
Told in Ajit’s own words
Chapter 1 · Roots
Early life in Belagavi
Ajit grew up in Belagavi with a strong passion for cricket from a young age. The family lived in poverty and education was a struggle — but Ajit's parents did everything they could to make sure Ajit studied.
Before organised sport, life was full of stress and worry. Living with a disability and early hardships, without a sporting outlet, left a constant sense of unease.
When I immersed myself in the game, cricket helped me let go of the hardships, pain, and unwanted thoughts in my mind.
Chapter 2 · Turning point
Finding DMSA
In 2021 Ajit discovered DMSA and wheelchair cricket, and met Shiva Prasad and Dileep Gowda, who shared a deep love for the sport. They welcomed Ajit with guidance and a chance to play.
With DMSA
How DMSA stood with Ajit
Connecting with DMSA gave Ajit leadership guidance, encouragement and a platform to play competitive wheelchair cricket. Shiva Prasad and Dileep Gowda offered the guidance and opportunities that let Ajit take the sport seriously.
What DMSA provided
- Initial guidance and an opportunity to play, in 2021
- Mentorship from Shiva Prasad and Dileep Gowda
Chapter 3 · On the field
A first-over wicket
In a national match in Tamil Nadu, the team trusted Ajit to bowl the crucial first over. Guided by senior players Harisha, Sagar Gowda and Shivanna, Ajit took a key wicket in that very first over — a proud milestone.
Scorecard
Ajit Padasalagi- From
- Belagavi district
- With DMSA since
- 2021
- Plays as
- Bowler
- Proudest moment
- A first-over wicket at a national match in Tamil Nadu
- Works as
- Computer operator, Gram Panchayat — for 14 years
Chapter 4 · Life today
Beyond the boundary
Life off the field
Cricket brought new friends and a way to break free from stress. The sport cleared mental burdens and brought social recognition, including several regional and foundation honours.
Work and independence
Ajit has worked as a computer operator at a Gram Panchayat for 14 years. Cricket has added social respect to that professional stability.
Chapter 5 · Road ahead
Empowering rural athletes
Ajit wants to find wheelchair cricketers in rural areas and guide them into the mainstream through sport.
Growth isn't just about my individual success; I want to identify people in rural areas and bring them into the mainstream through wheelchair cricket.
A message to you
Please support DMSA as your contributions bring light to the lives of many people with disabilities. Rather than spending unnecessarily, supporting wheelchair cricket helps transform lives.
— Ajit Padasalagi
Every hero needed a start
Support a Champion
₹45,000 puts one more athlete in a custom sports wheelchair.
Keep reading
