Archive · 2 Jan 2026
National Sprinter Devaki Dhar Overcomes Epilepsy Diagnosis
Devaki Dhar is a fast runner who represents India in sprinting.
When she was 19, she was diagnosed with epilepsy, a condition that causes seizures.
This was scary for her because running is very important in her life.
She had to stop running for a while and take medicine that made her feel sick and lose weight.
But she didn't give up.
She started training again with a new coach and a nutritionist who helped her eat better and feel stronger.
She even won a silver medal in a race and set a new personal best.
Now, she is preparing for big races and wants to tell others that having epilepsy doesn't mean you can't achieve your dreams.
Devaki Dhar, a national sprinter, was diagnosed with epilepsy at 19 while competing at the national level.
She initially struggled with the diagnosis, feeling a loss of control and uncertainty about her future in sprinting.
After a period of inactivity and weight loss, she began working with a nutritionist and a strength and conditioning coach to rebuild her strength and appetite.
In June 2025, she relocated to Bengaluru to train under former national sprinter Bindu Rani Gowda, who helped her adapt her training to her new condition.
Devaki won a silver medal in her first competitive race since her diagnosis and later achieved a personal best in September 2025, showing her progress and resilience.
- Who
- Devaki Dhar, a national sprinter from Delhi, India
- What
- Her journey of overcoming an epilepsy diagnosis and returning to competitive sprinting
- When
- Diagnosed in late 2024, began training again in June 2025, and achieved a personal best in September 2025
- Where
- Delhi and Bengaluru, India
- Why
- To raise awareness about epilepsy in sports and inspire others facing similar challenges
- Name
- Devaki Dhar
- Age at Diagnosis
- 19
- Condition
- Epilepsy
- Location
- Delhi, India
- Current Coach
- Bindu Rani Gowda
- Upcoming Event
- Inaugural Indoor Nationals (March 2026)
- Personal Best
- Achieved in September 2025
- Medication Impact
- Requires careful timing and recovery