The “Thala for a reason” trend associated with Dhoni not only showcased his enduring popularity but also revealed the power of social media to turn a troll into a tribute.
MS Dhoni’s legacy
It is worth mentioning that Dhoni boasts a glittering array of awards, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna for his contribution to Indian cricket. The former India captain’s leadership was pivotal in helping India secure two World Cups and an ICC Champions Trophy.
Even after bidding farewell to international cricket in 2020, his influence reverberates among cricket enthusiasts globally. Leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to an impressive five IPL titles further cements his iconic status.
The origin of “Thala for a reason”
Dhoni’s association with the CSK franchise, dating back to the inception of the Indian Premier League in 2008 (excluding the two banned years), has fostered a deep connection with the team and its fans and the term “Thala,” a Tamil word meaning boss, has been affectionately bestowed upon Dhoni by the ardent CSK supporters, underscoring his leadership qualities.
However, every iconic figure attracts a share of critics. Some detractors who label Dhoni as a credit-stealer sparked the inception of the “Thala for a reason” trend. Initially conceived as a troll targeting Dhoni, the trend swiftly metamorphosed into a celebration of his achievements and a testament to his resilience.
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Corporate giants join the trend
The trend gained such momentum that it transcended the realm of social media banter, drawing the attention of major industry players. Notable brands like Jio, Myntra, Dominos, and many others jumped on the bandwagon, contributing their own unique and humorous tributes to the “Thala for a reason” phenomenon.
A hilarious tribute parade
Several other brands, including Google India, Swiggy, Blinkit and more also showcased their creativity through witty posts and memes, all in good spirits. The trend even reached entertainment platforms, political entities, and sports networks, underscoring the widespread appeal of Dhoni and the organic nature of the trend.
Here are the best tweets on “Thala for a reason” trend:
The message is clear. Thala for a reason ?pic.twitter.com/cTRH1g2b1S
— Google India (@GoogleIndia) December 12, 2023
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