A simple thumbs up can do wonders – whether it’s in the midst of a tough moment or during a simple triumph. This year, India’s collective spirit soared, driving our athletes at the Paris Olympics to reach new heights. The country’s steadfast support made all the difference, as we rallied behind those who embody our aspirations and dreams.
Taking this simple idea – Thums Up, the homegrown brand under The Coca-Cola Company, launched the “Utha Thums Up, Jagaa Toofa” campaign. Bringing six of our ‘Toofani’ athletes to the fore, the aim is to always stand strong by their side. Athletes are dynamic ‘toofans’ themselves, they inspire the nation to trust in their inner strength. But a champion is not made overnight. Every time an athlete deals with a setback or feels a moment of hesitation, a simple thumbs-up from their supporters, coach, friends, and family helps them regain confidence and keep pursuing victory – and this is the essence of the campaign.
What’s crucial is our unwavering support for our talented stars, for their unbreakable resilience and indomitable spirit. As we cheer on, let’s learn more about some of the leading athletes of this season’s roster, from quirky inside info to what sets them apart, we’ve got it all!
Manu Bhaker
After her remarkable success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Bhaker proved her shooting prowess not just in the nation, but globally. She earned two bronze medals, including one in the women’s 10-meter air pistol event, making history as the first female shooter from India to win a medal at the Olympics. She has also etched her name in history as the first Indian to win double Olympic medals, a shining testament to her extraordinary talent and relentless spirit.
Beyond her shooting prowess, she is a trained martial artist and excels in boxing, skating, and horse riding. She has a passion for painting and enjoys sketching in her free time. Additionally, Manu has a keen interest in traditional Indian music and often plays the harmonium to relax.
Sift Kaur Samra
The Faridkot based sports shooter has been a young champion with numerous wins, she currently holds the world record in the Women’s 50m rifle three positions final, which she set while winning the gold medal in the same event at the 2022 Asian Games.
Originally a medical student who excelled in her NEET examinations, her family encouraged her to pursue a career in medicine, given its prestige in India. However, her unwavering passion for shooting never faltered. With her father’s steadfast support, she continued to chase her dream. Outside of her sport, Sift enjoys traveling and dancing.
Nikhat Zareen
The accomplished Indian boxer and a two-time world champion. She secured a gold medal at the 2011 AIBA Women’s Youth & Junior World Boxing Championships in Antalya. Zareen also secured gold medals at the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in Istanbul in 2022 and New Delhi in 2023.
The boxer who started at the young age of 13, trained by her uncle, has a journey of strength and commitment. Adorningly known as Nikki, she is an avid fan of Biryani and Nihari and loves to cycle.
Lovlina Borgohain
The renowned Olympian, Lovlina Borgohain is one of the only three female boxers from India to win a bronze at the Olympics (she was victorious with a bronze at the Tokyo 2020). The youngest of a humble Assamese household, Borgohain has various major wins to her name, from the Commonwealth to the IBA.
Outside the ring, Lovlina has a deep interest in Assamese culture and frequently promotes her heritage through social media and public appearances. Lovlina’s twin sisters, Lima and Licha, are also involved in sports, with Lima being a national-level boxer and Licha pursuing a career in sports coaching. She is admired for her dedication and resilience, inspiring many young athletes, especially women, in India and beyond.
Rubina Francis
A paralympics star, Rubina Francis is an Indian para pistol shooter currently holding the fifth position in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 category according to the International Shooting Sport Federation. She also competed in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event at the 2018 Asian Para Games.
Jabalpur’s pride, Rubina is the daughter of a mechanic and her humble beginnings ignite a wave of inspiration. Outside of shooting, she loves to travel, likes adventures, bikes and cars!
Sakshi Kasana
Sakshi Kasana is a remarkable Paralympic athlete from India, celebrated for her achievements in para-athletics. Competing primarily in the shot put and javelin throw events, Sakshi has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, overcoming significant challenges to excel in her sport.
Beyond her athletic prowess, she advocates for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities, striving to create greater awareness and opportunities within the sports community and beyond. She is passionate about painting and often finds solace and creative expression through her artwork. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Sakshi loves gardening, spending time nurturing plants and appreciating nature’s beauty.
As a nation, we are incredibly proud of our star athletes who have showcased extraordinary talent and determination at the Olympics. Their achievements have inspired the nation, filling us with immense pride. Post the Closing Ceremony, the excitement continues as we gear up to support our Paralympic athletes. India is riding this wave of enthusiasm, ready to cheer on these exceptional sportspersons who embody resilience and strength. Together, let’s celebrate their journey and the spirit of triumph that defines our nation. Thums Up salutes all our champions!
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