Some journeys are about more than medals; they’re about discipline, resilience, and inspiring others. Shashank and Anushka, India’s double gold-winning strength lifting champions at the 2025 World Strength Lifting Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, exemplify this perfectly. From the gyms of Nagpur to international podiums, their story is a testament to grit, teamwork, and unwavering focus.
In the latest episode of the Hashtag India Podcast, the duo shared their journey, from their first lifts and local competitions to winning international medals. They also discussed managing strict diets and shaping a mindset of resilience and strength.
Meet the Champions
Shashank began his journey as a content developer with little interest in sports.
Over time, he discovered his natural talent for weightlifting. Through consistent effort and precise technique, he transformed his life, evolving from a casual gym-goer to a world-class athlete.
Anushka, a fitness trainer and strength lifting coach, has trained numerous differently-abled athletes. Known for her motto “Strength for India,” she earned the title of Strength of Nagpur, demonstrating that dedication and resilience have no gender.
Together, they form a powerhouse duo in India’s strength-lifting scene.
How It All Began
The journey of Shashank and Anushka began at a local gym in Nagpur. While Shashank initially joined the gym out of curiosity, Anushka had a natural inclination towards fitness. Their shared passion for strength training quickly turned into friendship and mutual motivation.
Over time, they transitioned from powerlifting to strength lifting, preparing to compete side by side on international stages. Their partnership highlights the importance of teamwork and shared goals in achieving success.
The way to Pattaya
Preparing for the 2025 World Strength Lifting Championship in Thailand required more than physical strength. Both athletes emphasized mental toughness, diet discipline, and strategic planning.
Challenges Faced
- Weight Management: Even minor fluctuations could affect competition categories, requiring meticulous monitoring of diet and hydration.
- Strict Dieting: Meals were carefully planned for protein, low carbs, and proper recovery. Cheat days were rare and strictly timed.
- Travel Hurdles: Long flights, fasting, and limited access to familiar foods tested their adaptability and focus.
Despite these challenges, Shashank and Anushka remained disciplined, mentally strong, and committed to their shared goal: winning for India.
Life Lessons from Strength Lifting
The champions’ journey offers lessons beyond the gym:
- Consistency Beats Talent: Daily effort and small incremental improvements are more impactful than innate talent.
- Discipline Over Motivation: Motivation fades; discipline sustains growth.
- Strength Has No Gender: Fitness and power sports are for everyone.
- Mental Toughness Matters: Managing strict routines, travel stress, and competition pressure is key to success.
Nutrition & Daily Routine
Both athletes follow meticulously planned routines to maintain peak performance.
Shashank’s Routine:
- Breakfast: Oats with protein smoothie and milk
- Lunch: Rice with protein sources like chicken, paneer, or soy
- Snacks: Seasonal fruits in the evening
- Dinner: Dal, chapati, and vegetables
Anushka’s Routine:
- Breakfast: Foods aiding digestion and protein intake
- Lunch & Dinner: Low carbs, high protein, fiber-rich meals
- Snacks: Sprouts and other nutrient-dense options
Takeaways from Anushka and Shashank
Shashank and Anushka also shared some personal insights during the podcast:
Shashank:
- Gym mantra: “Wake up and do more.”
- Most satisfying: Clean lift
- Life as a website title tag: “Lifting weights and building code”
Anushka:
- Spirit animal in gym: Bull (unstoppable power)
- Must-learn strength exercise for women: Deadlift
- Journey in one word: Resilient
- Advice: Dream big, take chances, and never give up
Nagpur: The City That Shapes Champions
Despite their international achievements, both athletes remain deeply connected to Nagpur, a city that blends opportunities with emerging talent. Their journey inspires the next generation of strong athletes and innovators, emphasizing that success comes from consistent effort, discipline, and purposeful action.
Final thoughts
Shashank and Anushka’s journey demonstrates that true strength lies in discipline, teamwork, and mental resilience. From local gyms in Nagpur to the world stage in Pattaya, they prove that success is built through consistent effort, smart preparation, and an unshakable mindset.
This episode of the Hashtag India Podcast celebrates athletes who inspire others to push limits, embrace discipline, and embody strength, both physically and mentally.
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