India’s young shooting star, Manu Bhaker, recently revealed a personal tattoo that reflects her journey of resilience, determination, and triumph. Unlike most tattoos, which are meant for public display, Manu’s inked words are hidden from her own view. On the back of her neck, she bears the phrase, “Still I Rise,” a powerful declaration that she cannot see but carries with her always.
This phrase, from Maya Angelou’s iconic poem Still I Rise, took on special meaning for Manu after a significant setback at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. During the 10m air pistol event, a malfunction with her pistol dashed her hopes for a medal and brought a wave of public criticism. Rather than crumble under pressure, Manu found strength in these words. Speaking to The Times of India, she remarked, “I don’t know whose words these are, but now they are mine.”
The words from Angelou’s poem have inspired millions, and for Manu, they became a guiding light in her toughest moments. In January 2022, she decided to make the phrase a permanent part of her life by getting it tattooed. The location of the tattoo, on the back of her neck, was intentional. In an interview with News Drum, Manu explained that she didn’t want the tattoo to be in a place where she would see it every day, fearing that its meaning could diminish with constant visibility. Instead, it remains out of sight, a quiet reminder of her strength that is always with her but never overpowering.
For Manu, this tattoo symbolizes her recovery from the Tokyo disappointment, a moment that deeply affected her. After the malfunction that derailed her performance, she faced intense criticism and even lost her place in the national team for the 10m air pistol event. But Manu didn’t allow these setbacks to define her. Instead, she chose to rise above them.
“Success and failure are part of every sportsperson’s life,” Manu shared in the interview. “But the most important thing is how you deal with failure and prepare to bounce back.”
Though hidden from view most of the time, the message of Manu’s tattoo shines through her actions and her resilience. Her decision to keep the tattoo concealed reflects her inner strength—while the battles she has fought may not always be visible, they are etched on her skin and forever a part of her story.
Manu Bhaker’s tattoo serves as a symbol of her determination and ability to rise from adversity, a lesson that resonates with everyone who follows her journey.
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