India erupted in celebration after its maiden title triumph in the prestigious Thomas Cup badminton tournament, with people from all walks of life joyfully exhausting their stock of superlatives to adorn Sunday's heroes.
From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Virat Kohli, the historic feat drew the attention of the country's political class, sporting fraternity, entertainment industry, and the corporate sector, among others.
They lavished rich praise on the men who made it possible, Lakshay Sheron, Kidambi Srikanth, the doubles duo of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, and also the ones who were not required in the team's 3-0 demolition of 14-time winners Indonesia but played stirring roles en route to the victory in Bangkok.
PM Modi took to Twitter to congratulate team India and said, "The Indian badminton team has scripted history! The entire nation is elated by India winning the Thomas Cup! Congratulations to our accomplished team and best wishes to them for their future endeavours. This win will motivate so many upcoming sportspersons".
Meanwhile Kohli also termed the Thomas Cup triumph as massive moment for Indian badminton.
"A historic achievement and a massive moment for Indian badminton. Congratulations Team India on winning the Thomas Cup," Kohli tweeted.
Sports Minister Anurag Thakur meanwhile announced a cash award of Rs 1 crore to the Indian men’s badminton team which created history by winning the coveted Thomas Cup title for the first time.
“India’s extraordinary feat of winning the Thomas Cup with successive victories over Malaysia, Denmark and Indonesia in the play-offs called for a relaxation of rules," said Thakur in a statement.
"It is with pride that I announce the award of Rs 1 crore to the team that Indians so much joy this weekend.” Thakur complimented the players, coaches and support staff of the Indian team for the historic triumph.
“Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy kept a clean slate by winning each time they stepped on court. The doubles combination of SatwiksairakjRankireddy and Chirag Shetty raised the bar to win decisive points in five of the six matches, including all three in the knockout stage," he added.
Meanwhile, Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Himanta Biswa Sarma also announced an award of Rs 1 crore for the players of Indian men's team. He also declared a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh for the support staff of the team.
“Soaring to a New High. Congratulations Team India on scripting history by winning #ThomasCup, first time in the 73-year-history of this prestigious badminton team tournament. You've all made us immensely proud. Keep the flag flying high,” Biswa Sarma tweeted.
Here are some more reactions:
“What a historic day! An incredible achievement by an incredible Team India to win the #ThomasCup for the first time ever!! Bounced back from tough situations on numerous occasions to win Gold. Kudos to all the players and coaches. Champions, all of you!” Olympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra said.
“Congratulations TEAM INDIA Men's Team for winning the THOMAS CUP Title … Great win,” Olympic bronze medallist shuttler Saina Nehwal said.
"Pure show of grit and determination & India becomes the #ThomasCup champion for the 1st time in style, beating 14 times champions Indonesia 3-0 in the finals. It's coming home!" Badminton Association of India tweeted.
“History !!!! India wins Thomas cup the first time they reached finals !!! Take a bow boys !!!” actor Taapsee Pannu tweeted.
“Congratulations to our Indian Men's Badminton Team on the historic Thomas Cup win. This day will be etched in the sporting memory of every Indian. With this feat, our boys have captured the imagination of the entire nation,” Law Minister and former sports minister Kiren Rijiju tweeted.
“What a moment for Indian sport - we are Thomas Cup champions for the first ever time, and we beat the best to make it happen. Congrats to the players and staff. Some things take time, but don't let anyone tell you it can't be done,” Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri tweeted.
“We've had individual champions but winning as a team and a first-ever title in #ThomasCup is surreal. Kudos to each and everyone in the Indian team for making this dream come true. We are proud of you!” former India cricketer VVS Laxman said.
“History made. Welcome to India #Thomascup! Phenomenal! Jai Hind,” former India cricketer and MP Gautam Gambhir tweeted.
