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Lalit Upadhyay, a striker for the Indian men's hockey team, has overcome adversity to become an Olympic medalist. At 17, his career was derailed by a sting operation that falsely accused him of accepting a bribe. Shaken by the incident, he almost quit hockey."It was a blessing in disguise," Upadhyay said. "It made me mentally stronger. I've forgotten the incident, but it gives me strength when I remember it."Now 30, Upadhyay is a key member of the Indian team that won bronze in Tokyo. He has scored 45 goals in 168 international appearances and is focused on winning a gold medal in Paris."We know expectations are high," he said. "We're confident we can change the color of the medal."India faces a tough challenge in Paris, placed in a pool with New Zealand, Belgium, Australia, Argentina, and Ireland. But Upadhyay is optimistic."Hockey is always changing," he said. "We've been training hard and practicing against top teams like Australia, Germany, and Belgium."Upadhyay credits the team's success to mutual respect, bonding, and unity. "We stayed together for a long time during COVID," he said. "It strengthened our bond and helped us break the jinx in Tokyo."Upadhyay is inspired by hockey legend Mohammed Shahid, who hailed from his hometown of Varanasi. "I'm satisfied with what God has given me," he said. "I hope the legacy of hockey remains intact and the flag of Indian hockey keeps flying high."

The Olympic flame has illuminated the streets of Paris for two days, carried by hundreds of torchbearers through the city's iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods. From the grandeur of the Louvre Museum to the towering Eiffel Tower, the torch has symbolized the spirit of the upcoming Summer Games.Joyful crowds lined the route, cheering on the torchbearers as they ran at a slow pace, their white uniforms contrasting against the vibrant backdrop of Paris. BMX world champion Matthias Dandois, who carried the torch in front of the Eiffel Tower, expressed his emotions: "I got super emotional. I'm from Paris, and I grew up playing so much sport and watching the Olympics, and it was a dream to be a part of it."About 10,000 people were selected to carry the flame across France, representing a diverse range of backgrounds. Athletes, artists, cultural figures, and community volunteers all had the honor of participating in this historic relay.The torch reached the summit of the Eiffel Tower on Monday, carried by French judoka and Olympic champion Clarisse Agbegnenou. Francky Mbotto, a middle-distance runner from Central African Republic, described the experience as "incredible" and "emotional," emphasizing the message of peace conveyed by the relay.Eva David, a wheelchair basketball athlete, shared her joy: "It's a real moment of jubilation." Belgian singer Mentissa carried the torch to the sound of her own music, highlighting the unifying power of sports and music.The torch's grand entrance in Paris on Bastille Day featured military horse rider Col. Thibaut Vallette, a gold medalist at the 2016 Rio Games. It was then passed to students from the multicultural suburbs of Seine-Saint-Denis in front of French President Emmanuel Macron.Former World Cup winner Thierry Henry, who leads France's Olympic soccer team, carried the flame down the Champs-Elysees avenue. Among the most popular torchbearers was K-Pop icon Jin, a member of the band BTS, who drew a significant crowd.The torch relay also paid tribute to victims of the 2015 attacks in Paris, with Lassana Bathily, who saved lives during an attack at a kosher supermarket, carrying the torch at the Pantheon monument.The torch will continue its journey through northern France and the Paris region before returning to the capital for the opening ceremony on July 26, where the Olympic cauldron will be lit after the ceremony on the River Seine.

Nishant Dev, a rising star in Indian boxing, is poised to make history at the upcoming Paris Olympics. With his unwavering confidence and rigorous training regimen, he aims to become the first Indian male boxer to win an Olympic gold medal.Dev's inspiration lies in the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr., known for his undefeated record and impeccable defense. While Dev may not engage in trash-talking, he instills fear in his opponents with his unwavering belief in his abilities. "I know I am the best in the world. I don't fear anyone," he declares.In preparation for the Olympics, Dev has spent weeks at a training camp in Saarbrucken, Germany. The camp provides him with world-class sparring partners and excellent facilities. He has sparred with boxers from the US, Denmark, and Ireland, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience.Dev's training regimen is intense, with 90-minute sessions in the morning and three-hour sessions in the evening. He focuses on endurance, strength, and technique, leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of Olympic glory.Despite the formidable competition in the 71kg division, Dev remains undeterred. He has faced and defeated many of his potential opponents, studying their weaknesses and developing strategies to exploit them.To maintain his weight and muscle content, Dev follows a strict low-fat, low-calorie diet. He has sacrificed his favorite foods, such as aloo ke paranthe and rajma-chawal, in the pursuit of his Olympic dream.Dev's post-Olympic plans include indulging in his favorite foods and exploring the world. However, his ultimate goal remains the Olympic gold medal. "It's been over three months since I had my favorite food. All my life, all I have done is box. It will all be worth it when I win that Olympic gold," he says.

Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, the Arjuna awardee and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Uttar Pradesh, is eagerly preparing for his second Olympic Games appearance in Paris this year. The 30-year-old forward for the India men's national field hockey team is determined to make a mark on the world stage once again.Upadhyay's journey to the Olympics has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Hailing from Varanasi, he faced financial constraints that often hindered his pursuit of hockey. However, his passion for the sport and unwavering determination propelled him forward.In 2020, Upadhyay played a pivotal role in India's historic bronze medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics. The achievement brought immense pride and recognition to the team and motivated them to strive for even greater success in Paris.Upadhyay's contributions to Indian hockey extend beyond the Olympics. He was instrumental in securing gold at the 2022 Asian Games in China and medals at the Commonwealth Games and the Men's FIH Hockey World Cup.As the team prepares for the Paris Games, Upadhyay emphasizes the importance of sustaining their efforts and bringing home a gold medal for India. He believes that hockey, being the national game, holds a special place in the hearts of Indians, and the team is committed to delivering their best.Upadhyay's personal life has also seen a significant milestone this year, as he tied the knot with hockey player Diksha Tiwari in April. The couple shares a passion for the sport and supports each other's aspirations.Before heading to Paris, the Indian team will participate in practice matches in Holland. Upadhyay recognizes the significance of this opportunity, as it will provide them with valuable experience and help them fine-tune their strategies.Upadhyay's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. He encourages parents to support their children's sporting endeavors and urges the youth to embrace sports with passion and determination.

Rhythm Sangwan, a rising star in Indian pistol shooting, has emerged as a formidable force on the international stage. At just 20 years old, she has already amassed an impressive collection of medals, including seven World Championships medals, eight World Cup medals, and three Asian Championships medals. Her crowning achievement came at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where she won team gold in the women's 25m pistol event.Despite her early success, Rhythm remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement. "I don't believe in resting on my laurels," she says. "I have had my share of highs and lows, but opportunities like the Olympics make it all worthwhile."Rhythm will represent India in the 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics alongside the experienced Manu Bhaker. While expectations are high, Rhythm emphasizes the importance of staying present and giving her best. "I don't think of results," she says. "My only target is to give my 100 percent."Rhythm's preparation for the Olympics includes a rigorous training regimen and a focus on mental strength. She draws inspiration from Manu Bhaker, who bounced back from a disappointing performance in Tokyo. "The way she has bounced back says a lot about her mental strength," Rhythm says. "Shooting is an individual sport, but there are occasional discussions with her that help me improve."Rhythm's pre-match routine involves listening to upbeat music to help her enter the zone. "I like Bollywood music," she says. "It helps me get into my zone."Rhythm is confident of making an impact at the Olympics. She has experience shooting at the competition range in Chateauroux, France, which she believes will be an advantage. "My only goal will be to shoot the best I have ever done," she says.

Lovlina Borgohain, India's boxing sensation, is poised to make history at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, where she will compete in the women's 75kg event. Hailing from the humble village of Baromukhia in Assam, Lovlina's journey to the pinnacle of boxing is a testament to her unwavering determination and exceptional talent.Born on October 2, 1997, Lovlina's boxing journey began with Muay Thai alongside her two elder sisters, who were national-level competitors. Her potential was recognized during a Sports Authority of India (SAI) trial in 2012, where she caught the attention of coach Padum Boro. Under his guidance, Lovlina embarked on a rigorous training regimen at the SAI center in Guwahati.Despite early setbacks, including a transition to higher weight divisions due to her height, Lovlina's talent shone through. She won the junior national championship and achieved international success with a silver medal at the 2013 Nation's Women's Junior Cup in Serbia.Lovlina's breakout came with a bronze medal at the 2017 Asian Championships, followed by a gold medal at the 2018 India Open. These victories earned her a spot at the Commonwealth Games, where she narrowly lost to gold medallist Sandy Ryan of England in the quarter-finals.Undeterred, Lovlina rebounded with a bronze medal at the 2018 World Championships, overcoming adversity and injury. In 2019, she cemented her status as India's top female welterweight boxer with national and international gold medals.Lovlina's Olympic dream became a reality when she qualified for the Tokyo Olympics 2020 with a bronze medal at the Asia and Oceania Boxing Olympic qualifiers. At the Games, she made history by clinching an Olympic bronze medal, defeating former world champion Chen Nien-chin. This victory solidified her status among India's boxing elite alongside icons like Mary Kom and Vijender Singh.Lovlina's success continued with a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Championships and a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Games. She secured her place in the Paris Olympics while becoming a world champion in New Delhi the following year.As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, Lovlina Borgohain is an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. Her journey from humble beginnings to the world stage is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of her family and coaches.

Adani Group Pledges Support to Indian Contingent for 2024 Paris OlympicsIn a significant announcement, the Adani Group has pledged its unwavering support to the Indian contingent preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The conglomerate has launched a campaign titled #DeshkaGeetAtOlympics, which celebrates the relentless dedication of Indian athletes and aims to ignite patriotism among the nation.The campaign revolves around the athletes' unwavering pursuit of victory and the honor of hearing the national anthem at the Olympics. The Adani Group recognizes the countless hours and years of training that these athletes have invested in their quest for excellence.Through its support, the Adani Group aims to elevate the sporting ecosystem in India and foster a culture of sportsmanship. Since 2016, the Group has supported over 28 athletes in various disciplines, including boxing, wrestling, tennis, javelin throw, shooting, and archery.Notable beneficiaries of the Adani Group's support include Commonwealth Games gold medalists Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Deepak Punia, as well as boxer Amit Panghal. Dahiya and Punia also secured silver medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 Asian Games.The Adani Group's commitment to Indian sports extends beyond the Olympics. The Group has also sponsored the Indian contingent at the Tokyo Olympics, the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022, and the Hangzhou Asian Games 2022.Sanjay Adesara, CBO of Adani Sportsline, expressed the Group's unwavering support for the athletes: "We extend our best wishes to our champion athletes and hope that we have more success than ever before. We are fully committed to supporting our athletes in their quest for excellence at the highest level in sport."As the Indian contingent embarks on the final leg of its preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Adani Group's support serves as a testament to the nation's unwavering belief in its athletes. The Group's commitment to developing the sporting ecosystem in India will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Indian contingent and inspire future generations of athletes.

Antim Panghal, India's rising wrestling star, is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The 19-year-old prodigy is expected to be a medal contender in the 53 kg weight category, carrying the hopes of her nation on her shoulders.Panghal's journey began at the tender age of 10, inspired by her elder sister, a kabaddi player. Encouraged by her sibling, she embarked on a path that would lead her to unprecedented heights in Indian wrestling. In an exclusive interview with JioCinema's 'The Dreamers,' Panghal shared her remarkable story, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her career.Reflecting on her early days, Panghal admitted to experiencing nerves before stepping onto the mat. However, once the competition commenced, her fears dissipated, replaced by an unwavering determination to fight and win. The two-time Junior World Champion's journey took a pivotal turn at the 2022 Commonwealth Games trials. A disappointing loss to Vinesh Phogat ignited a fire within her, propelling her to work harder than ever before."The loss at the trial for the 2022 Commonwealth Games to Vinesh Phogat was tough, but it motivated me to work harder," Panghal said. "I went on to win a gold at the Junior World Championships, becoming the first Indian woman to do so, and later won a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Championships. My life changed after the 2022 Commonwealth Games."Panghal emphasized the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks. "If I lose a match, I don't dwell on it," she said. "I motivate myself to do better and move on. I believe that the Almighty has a better plan for me, and there are lessons to be learned from my losses."Looking ahead to Paris 2024, Panghal aspires to emulate Sakshi Malik, India's only female Olympic wrestling medallist. "The country has placed its faith in me, and I want to live up to their expectations," she said. "Once I set my mind on something, I ensure it gets done."Panghal's achievements are a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. She has created history as the first Indian woman to win gold at the Junior World Wrestling Championships in 2022 and 2023. She also earned a bronze medal at the 2023 World Wrestling Championships, a bronze at the 2022 Asian Games, and a silver at the 2023 Asian Wrestling Championships.As she prepares for the biggest stage of her career, Antim Panghal is determined to make her mark on the world stage. With her unwavering spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence, she is poised to become a symbol of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers and sports enthusiasts alike.

Nisha Dahiya's journey to the Paris Olympics has been marked by resilience and determination. After a severe collarbone injury in 2022, she spent months in recovery, determined to qualify for the Games.Her unwavering spirit led her to the World Qualifiers in May, where she secured her spot in the 68kg category. This triumph came after a career plagued by injuries, a doping ban, and a mistaken identity that falsely announced her death.Nisha's Olympic dream began a decade ago, inspired by Sakshi Malik's Commonwealth Games medal. Despite setbacks, she persevered, winning bronze at the U-23 World Championships and silver at the Asian Championships.Injuries have been a constant challenge, but Nisha's unwavering belief in her abilities has kept her going. She credits her physio from Reliance Foundation for her recovery and her move to the Inspire Institute of Sports for her improved training.Under the guidance of Iranian coach Amir Tavakolian, Nisha has honed her defensive skills and mental strength. She recently trained in Hungary, sparring with world-class wrestlers to overcome her initial hesitation.Sakshi Malik remains a source of support, offering encouragement and advice. Nisha's determination and the support of her team have fueled her journey to the Paris Olympics, where she aims to make her mark on the world stage.