In this extraordinary TEDx talk, Dutee Chand, India’s celebrated Olympian, shares her inspiring journey from a life of poverty to becoming an international sports icon. Born into a poor family, Dutee ran barefoot through her village fields, enduring mockery and struggle. She speaks about her early days, her first silver medal, and the long, painful road to recognition. But her most defining moment came in 2014, when she was suspended over controversial gender norms, a moment that could have ended her career. Instead, she fought back, won her case, and made a massive return to the track. With over 85 international medals, and as the only Indian athlete to represent the nation in both the 100m and 200m races at the Olympics, Dutee is a symbol of resilience, courage, and self-belief. This talk is a powerful reminder that true strength is not just in the body, but in the will to rise, whenever you fall. Dutee Chand is a celebrated Indian sprinter who rose from severe financial hardships to become a national sports icon. An accomplished athlete, she has won over 85 international medals and is the only Indian to compete in both the 100m and 200m Olympic races. Also, a prominent LGBTQ+ figure, she became one of India’s first openly gay athletes in 2019. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx