[Watch] Vinesh Phogat's Raksha Bandhan celebration with her brother
On Monday morning (August 19), Vinesh Phogat, one of India's most celebrated wrestlers, embraced the festive spirit as she celebrated Raksha Bandhan with her brother in Charkhi Dadri, Haryana. Dressed in her official Olympic kit, Vinesh was seen tying a rakhi on her brother Harvinder’s wrist.
In a playful mood, Vinesh who was seen holding a bundle of notes, joked about taking away all her brother's earnings.
"I’m almost 30 now. He used to give me Rs 10, and last year, he gave me Rs 500. And now, he’s given me this. He’s worked hard for this his whole life, and now it’s mine. Thank you, brothers and sisters," said Vinesh in the video shared by IANS.
Watch Vinesh's heartwarming interaction with her brother:
Vinesh Phogat received a grand welcome in India
Vinesh Phogat’s Paris Olympics journey ended in heartbreak after being disqualified from the final for missing weight by just 100 grams, However, the reception she received upon her return spoke volumes about the pride and admiration her community holds for her. When Vinesh returned to India on Saturday, August 17, the welcome she received was nothing short of extraordinary.
Landing in New Delhi, Vinesh was met with overwhelming love and support from her family, friends, and fellow wrestlers, including Sakshee Malikkh and Bajrang Punia. As she stepped out of the airport, she was greeted by a massive crowd, all eager to celebrate her achievements.
Vinesh Phogat, deeply moved by the reception, couldn’t hold back her tears as she saw the outpouring of affection.
"So what if they didn’t give me the gold medal, the people here have given me that. The love and respect I’ve received is worth more than 1,000 Olympic gold medals," she said (via News 18).
Her convoy, which traveled 135 kilometers from Delhi to her hometown of Balali, took nearly 12 hours due to the numerous stops along the way, where panchayats and villagers honored her with heartfelt gestures.
One of the most touching tributes was in her village, where 750 kg of ladoos, made from desi ghee, were prepared to celebrate her return.