India is a land of diverse people and stories, yet inclusivity remains a dream for many individuals with disabilities. My heart beats for every person who deserves to be included, celebrated, and empowered. Today, I bring you an interview with one of the most dynamic women entrepreneurs I know, a fighter who didn’t let her birth defect define her. Meet Kala Sridhar, a passionate cricketer, successful business owner, and ardent Rotarian.
Kala has a physical a congenital deformity for which she uses extension prosthetics (artificial leg) but she has never let this get in the way of her passion for cricket or her fervour to be one of the best event entrepreneurs in India. Here is her story…
Kala is a true embodiment of resilience and determination. She’s breaking barriers in sports and business while advocating for inclusivity through sports. She also shares a deep connection with Sarvashreshtha Cricket Club, a bond I deeply admire. Watching her on the turf, never asking for special concessions or using her disability as an advantage, inspires me every single time. Here’s an insightful conversation with Kala, a woman who proves that courage and grit can overcome any challenge.
1. Navigating Professional Spaces
Q: As an accomplished event manager, cricketer, and active member of Rotary, you’ve excelled in multiple fields. What challenges have you encountered in your journey, and how have you turned those challenges into opportunities to grow and succeed?
Kala:
Every challenge is an opportunity to become more than we’ve been before! I firmly believe that obstacles don’t have to stop us. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.
During my term as the President of my Rotary Club in 2020–21, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, I didn’t let the lockdown deter me. In 365 days, I led 178 projects, reaching over 23,000 beneficiaries and earning a Platinum Citation for my club. Challenges only fueled my determination to make a difference.
2. Accessibility and Inclusion in Mumbai
Q: Mumbai is known for its fast-paced and dynamic nature. From your experience, how accessible is the city’s infrastructure for individuals with mobility or accessibility needs, and what improvements would you suggest to make it more inclusive?
Kala:
People are beginning to realize the importance of mobility access. New residential complexes are ensuring easy wheelchair movement, and some banks and corporates are making workplaces more disability-friendly. Parks and gardens are also seeing changes.
However, accessibility in sports venues is still a challenge. As a cricket fan, I’d love to watch matches at Wankhede or DY Patil Stadium, but they’re far from disability-friendly. We’ve been searching for a venue for a wheelchair basketball tournament for two months and still haven’t found one. There’s progress, but we have a long way to go.
“If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”
– Kala Sridhar
3. Changing Perspectives
Q: You’ve defied expectations by excelling in sports and leadership roles. What are some misconceptions you’ve faced about people with disabilities, and how do you work to shift these perspectives?
Kala:
We need empathy, not sympathy.
As my friend Stephen Voorman, a paraplegic who completed a mega cyclothon in Maharashtra, says, “I am not disabled. Your thinking about me is disabled.” This powerful mindset shift is what I aim to inspire in others.
4. Support and Opportunities
Q: What role have your support systems, such as family, friends, or organizations like Rotaract, played in helping you thrive? Do you think Mumbai offers enough opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities to showcase their talents?
Kala:
My family is my lifeline. My dad encouraged me at every step, and although he’s no longer with us, I know he’s proud of my achievements. My husband, mom, sons, daughter-in-law, and friends have all been pillars of support.
Joining Sarvashreshtha last year was a turning point. Mayura and Happy Sir have been incredible motivators, reigniting my passion for cricket. Their encouragement has been invaluable in my journey.
“Accessibility in sports venues is still a challenge. As a cricket fan, I’d love to watch matches at Wankhede or DY Patil Stadium, but they’re far from disability-friendly.”
– Kala Sridhar
5. Building an Inclusive Future
Q: As an advocate for inclusion, what changes do you think would make Mumbai a better place for everyone, regardless of their abilities? How can society contribute to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment?
Kala:
Awareness is growing, albeit slowly. Empathy can help people continue living and moving forward, while sympathy often keeps them stagnant.
Also, mindset matters. Staying positive can turn the tide in your favor. No wonder my blood group is B+!
6. Your Relationship with Sarvashreshtha
Q: As an ardent cricket lover and player, how has the abled cricket community received you? Is there any specific instance or experience you’d like to share?
Kala:
Thanks to Sarvashreshtha, and especially Mayura and Happy Sir, for encouraging me to pursue my favorite sport. Mayura ensures I attend as many sessions as possible, and Happy Sir’s appreciation after a good over or batting session always lifts my spirits.
Being the owner of a team in one of the tournaments and experiencing the bidding and player auction process was an unforgettable experience. It’s been a journey filled with support and learning.
Friends, inclusivity is not just a goal; it’s a responsibility we all share. This post is part of an annual inclusivity blog hop organized by my friend, Sakshi Verma. It’s my third year participating, and I feel fortunate to contribute to this brigade working toward a more inclusive society.
If you want to know more about the “International Day of Persons with Disability” blog hop hosted by Sakshi Varma – Tripleamommy please visit this website: https://tripleamommy.com/2024/12/02/beyond-barriers-amplifying-voices-for-inclusion-marking-idpd-2024/.
Here’s to breaking barriers and building a world where everyone feels empowered to shine!
Penned by:
Mayura Amarkant
Copyright ©MayuraAmarkant. This short story is the property of DiaryOfAnInsaneWriter. Any unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Mayura Amarkant (DiaryOfAnInsaneWriter). With the right and specific direction to the original content.
For the 3rd year in a row, I’m thrilled to be part of a blog hop celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) organized by @tripleamommy ! With over 30 participants, we’re exploring personal experiences and perceptions around disability inclusion—a vital topic close to my heart.