As Tulika Maan prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, she not only carries her dreams but the aspirations of an entire nation. At 25, this heavyweight judoka from New Delhi has become a beacon of hope for Indian judo, ready to propel it to unprecedented heights. Her journey from a young enthusiast to an Olympic contender is a stirring story of perseverance, dedication, and ambition.
Early Years and Entry into Judo
Tulika was born in 1998 in New Delhi, starting her judo journey at the age of eight. Encouraged by her family, particularly her mother, Amrita Singh, she rapidly fell in love with the sport. Her formative years were filled with intense training and competitions at both national and international levels, where she began to collect accolades, including two bronze medals at the Asian Junior Championships in 2017 and 2018.
Rise to Prominence
Her major breakthrough occurred at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Tulika clinched a silver medal in the +78kg category, marking her as a standout Indian athlete. Although she finished second to Scotland's Sarah Adlington, her performance catapulted her into the limelight, proving her potential on the global stage.
Tulika's international experience is extensive, with participations in five World Championships and notable finishes, alongside World Cup medals in Taipei and Kuwait. These accomplishments highlight her consistency and prowess in international judo.
Training and Support
Tulika's rigorous training takes place at the Delhi Academy of Fitness and Combat Sports, under coach Yashpal Solanki. Her comprehensive training focuses on refining her technique and endurance, preparing her for elite competitions. She credits her partner, Divyanshu Puri, for his unwavering support and motivation throughout her journey.
Life Beyond Judo
When not on the mat, Tulika is a student at DDU Gorakhpur University and has diverse interests including anime and cooking, which she pursues with equal passion. She aims to blend her love for animation with her career, aspiring to become a professional anime creator.
Beliefs and Driving Forces
Tulika maintains certain rituals and beliefs, such as listening to the Hanuman Chalisa before competitions, which she finds empowering. Her mantra, "Never lose hope," mirrors her resilient spirit and her determination to excel and overcome obstacles.
Future Aspirations
Tulika's ultimate goal is to leave an indelible mark on Indian judo, inspiring a new generation of athletes. Her upcoming appearance at the Paris Olympics is pivotal to achieving this dream, aiming to secure a medal that would elevate the status of judo in India.
As she steps onto the Olympic stage, Tulika Maan embodies the spirit and hopes of Indian judo, aspiring to change the course of its history forever.