From tragedy to triumph: How javelin champion, Sumit Antil found his 'second birthdate'
Sumit Antil
, one such moment came in 2015, in the aftermath of a devastating road accident.
At just 17, both his dreams of joining the army or representing India in wrestling were suddenly shattered. But, with the guidance and care of his doctors, Sumit didn't just recover physically — he found the strength to dream again. Born in Sonipat, Haryana, Sumit started off as a promising young wrestling talent with aspirations of representing India.
But the accident that led to the amputation of his leg seemed to spell the end of everything he'd worked towards.
Sumit recalls, 'My life was completely shattered. Both my dreams were lost in an instant'. What followed was a long and painful journey—months of recovery, rehabilitation, and uncertainty. But Sumit wasn't alone. A dedicated team of doctors stood by him, helping him heal not just his body, but his confidence, drive and hope.
May 26, 2015—the day he first stood on his feet again, holds deep personal meaning for Sumit.
'It's the day I began chasing a new dream,' he says. 'That's why I call it my #SecondBirthDate'.
Sumit Antil's #secondbirthdate story with Sun Pharma | www.secondbirthdate.com | Hindi
This year, Sumit joins Sun Pharma's award-winning #SecondBirthDate initiative, a heartfelt campaign that honours doctors who give people a second chance at life. His association with the initiative isn't just symbolic—it deeply personal.
Sumit shares, 'National Doctors' Day is a moment to pause and honour our real-life heroes—doctors who work selflessly to heal and uplift others and I'm proud to be a part of Sun Pharma's #SecondBirthDate initiative.
Sumit defended his title at the Paris 2024 Paralympics with a record throw of 70.59 m, becoming the first Indian male athlete to win back-to-back Paralympic golds in the same event. He is also set to represent India at the World Para Athletics Championship in Delhi in September 2025 – something that wouldn't have been possible without the doctors that stood by him a decade ago.
Through powerful storytelling and real-life journeys like Sumit's, Sun Pharma's #SecondBirthDate has grown into a national movement over the last three year.
Since its launch, the campaign has inspired thousands to pause and reflect on the critical role of doctors who helped them through life's toughest chapters. This year along with Sumit, Indian Idol winner, Pawandeep Rajan also shared his personal story of surviving a life-threatening accident, as did Indian cricker, Harmanpreet Kaur.
To amplify these voices, Sun Pharma has rolled out a high-impact media campaign across leading national & regional newspapers and digital platforms— including a special collaboration with Humans of Bombay that features the stories of everyday survivors.
While emphasising the importance of the campaign, Kirti Ganorkar, CEO – India Business, Sun Pharma, said, '#SecondBirthDate is our tribute to doctors who give people a second chance at life. What began three years ago as a humble initiative to celebrate the life of medical heroes has grown into a national movement, powered by countless personal stories of hope, courage, and gratitude. We are truly honoured to have Sumit Antil join the initiative this year.
His resilience and determination to make a meaningful impact reflect the same spirit that drives our doctors — a shared commitment to making a difference in society'.
As India marks National Doctors' Day, Sun Pharma invites everyone to celebrate the doctors who've made a difference to their lives.
Visit
www.secondbirthdate.com
to send a personalised 'Thank You Card' to the doctor who has gave you or someone you love, a second chance at life.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Which is better: Rice or Flattened Rice?
Rice and flattened rice (commonly known as poha or beaten rice) are staple grains in Indian households, yet they differ significantly in texture, processing, nutritional profile, and culinary uses. Understanding these differences can help you choose the better option depending on your dietary goals and health needs. Here's a closer look at both. Processing and Texture Rice refers to whole or polished grains of paddy that are typically boiled or steamed before eating. Flattened rice, on the other hand, is made by parboiling rice and then flattening it into thin, dry flakes. While rice grains remain whole and require cooking, poha softens easily with minimal soaking or steaming, making it quicker to prepare. Nutritional Composition Both rice and poha are rich in carbohydrates, but poha has a slightly better nutrient profile due to the parboiling process, which retains some of the nutrients from the husk. Poha contains small amounts of iron, fiber, and B vitamins, especially when made from red rice. White rice, especially the polished variety, is lower in fiber and micronutrients due to the removal of the outer bran layer. Which is more healthier? Flattened rice (poha) and regular rice both offer health benefits, but differ in nutrition and usage. Flattened rice is partially cooked, easy to digest, and lower in calories, making it ideal for light, quick meals and for those with digestive issues. It retains some iron and fiber due to minimal processing and is often enriched in traditional methods. Regular rice, especially brown rice, is richer in fiber, B vitamins, and provides sustained energy, but takes longer to cook and digest. Overall, poha is better for light meals and quick digestion, while rice provides more satiety and sustained energy. Glycemic Index and Digestion Poha generally has a lower glycemic index than white rice, making it a better choice for people with diabetes or those looking to manage blood sugar. It's also light on the stomach and easily digestible, which is why it's often recommended for breakfast or during illness. Rice, especially polished white rice, digests quickly and can cause a quicker spike in blood glucose levels. Cooking and Versatility Poha is quick to cook and doesn't need boiling — just a quick rinse or soak followed by light sautéing. It's versatile in recipes like kanda poha, vegetable poha, or even sweet dishes. Rice, however, requires longer cooking times and is typically used as a base for dal-chawal, biryani, and other heavier meals. The ease of cooking gives poha an edge for busy or health-conscious eaters. Satiety and Weight Management Since poha retains some fiber and expands when soaked, it gives a feeling of fullness without being calorie-dense. This makes it more helpful in weight management compared to polished rice, which is more energy-dense and less filling in small portions. Including vegetables and nuts in poha further improves its satiety value. Which Is Better? Both rice and poha have their place in a balanced diet. If you're looking for a quick, light, and slightly more nutritious option, especially for breakfast or a snack, flattened rice is a better choice. However, for meals requiring a hearty base or if you're seeking higher calorie intake, plain rice works well. Choosing whole grain or red varieties of both rice and poha can further enhance their health benefits.
Hans India
3 hours ago
- Hans India
Top 5 Healing Turmeric Remedies You Should Try
Turmeric—known as the "golden spice"—has been a healing staple in Indian households for centuries. Rich in curcumin, turmeric boasts powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective natural remedy for a wide range of health concerns. Whether you're battling a sore throat, skin irritation, or congestion, turmeric offers simple, side-effect-free solutions that work in harmony with your body. Here are five turmeric-based remedies that you can incorporate into your routine to boost overall health and wellness: 1. Turmeric and Honey Paste for Sore Throat Relief Say goodbye to chemical lozenges. This soothing combination of 1 teaspoon of turmeric and 1 tablespoon of raw honey creates a natural throat remedy. Let the paste slowly dissolve in your mouth to ease irritation and fight off infections effectively. 2. Haldi Steam for Nasal Congestion Combat seasonal colds and blocked sinuses with turmeric steam. Just add half a teaspoon of turmeric to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale deeply. The steam's antibacterial properties help clear nasal congestion and promote easier breathing. 3. Turmeric Face Pack for Radiant Skin For glowing, even-toned skin, mix turmeric with gram flour and curd. Apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. This natural face pack helps reduce acne, brighten your complexion, and calm skin inflammation. 4. Turmeric Gargle for Oral Health Mix a pinch of turmeric and salt into a glass of warm water and use it to gargle. This natural rinse soothes ulcers, reduces gum inflammation, and refreshes the mouth—acting as a gentle yet effective antiseptic. 5. Turmeric Balm for Minor Cuts and Insect Bites Create a healing balm by combining turmeric with aloe vera gel. Apply this blend to wounds or insect bites to speed up recovery. It reduces swelling, fights infection, and soothes itching—all without any harsh chemicals. Turmeric isn't just a spice—it's a time-tested remedy trusted across generations. With these five simple turmeric treatments, you can tap into its natural healing power to support your body, especially during times of stress, weather changes, or fatigue.
Hans India
3 hours ago
- Hans India
CM Revanth Urges Corporate Doctors to Serve in Govt Hospitals One Month a Year
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has made an important request to doctors working in private and corporate hospitals. He urged them to give one month every year to work in government hospitals as a part of their social duty. The Chief Minister said that since he took office, his goal has been to provide free, quality education and healthcare to poor people. He believes that doctors can help make this goal a success by giving some time to serve the underprivileged. CM Revanth said that doctors are free to work anywhere they want for 11 months of the year, with any salary. But for one month, he wants them to treat patients in government hospitals to help the poor. He added that true job satisfaction comes when doctors serve people who cannot afford expensive medical care. This request is not only for doctors in Telangana and Hyderabad, but also for Indian-origin doctors living and working abroad, especially in countries like the United States. Many of them want to return and serve in India, but they don't have a proper way to do it. To solve this, CM Revanth said that he has told officials to create a special platform where doctors in India and abroad can register and offer their services to public hospitals.
