'It's because of my mother I am here today': Tulika Maan, India's lone judoka at Paris Olympics | Exclusive

“It's a big responsibility on my shoulders and I'm looking forward to it,” were Tulika Maan’s first comment when asked about her aspirations at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Tulika, who won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022, will be India’s sole participant in judo. She takes part in the women’s +78kg division, having secured the Olympic berth by obtaining the continental quota for India last month.

Still soaking in the feeling, Tulika, who is currently training in Valencia, Spain, told Moneycontrol that “it is extremely overwhelming because the entire nation's eyes will be on the Olympics.” In addition, she also hopes to do exceedingly well at the Games for her mother, who has been the biggest constant in this journey.

“It started when I was alone at home and I asked my mother to engage me in some sporting activities. Judo was a sport that was near my house and my friends used to go there. I joined judo classes there and started my journey as a professional judoka,” said the 25-year-old.

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Enrolment in judo classes were just a beginner’s step, what came next was financial challenges due to lack of sponsors. “I faced many hurdles throughout my judo journey. Getting sponsorships was definitely one of them. Because of lack of sponsorships and financial support, me and my mother faced a lot of challenges along the way. In spite of that, she managed to support my judoka journey financially and it's because of her that I am here today,” Tulika explained further.

Tulika, however, is now supported by Evocus and there is one specific product Evocus Hydration IV, which has improved her training effectively.

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Preparation in Valencia

Tulika confirmed that she has been training in Valencia since the last two weeks, and will reach Paris on July 26, where she will have a special camp. Her first match at the Games is scheduled for August 2, allowing her ample time to settle down.

Thangjam Tababi Devi, who hails from Manipur, is the only Indian to win a medal at the Olympic level, but she achieved the feat at the youth level. India, however, are yet to open their account in the senior level and when asked to Tulika if she can be the first to script history, the Delhi-based judoka said: “We are thinking that we will surely get a medal because training is going extremely good.”

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However, her first tie is against Japan, who she admits are “a powerhouse in judo” making the course very difficult right at the beginning. Sharing insights on the same, Tulika said: “we are planning on how we can tackle them and reach the next round for the quarter finals. So, we are focusing on the first two fights right now.”

Tulika is also determined to not repeat past mistakes again, and hopes to use her big stage experiences, such as the Commonwealth and National Games, to bring out her A game in Paris.