Triumphant Homecoming for Vinesh Phogat as She Receives Heroic Reception

Celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat returned to a grand welcome in India, with supporters and stars gathering at IGI airport. Despite a disappointing exit at the Paris Olympics, she was greeted with immense solidarity. Gagan Narang praised her, stating she's a champion despite the lack of an Olympic medal.

Celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat received a grand welcome on her return to the country, as hundreds of supporters and prominent figures gathered outside the IGI airport on Saturday, displaying immense solidarity with her.

Alongside stars like Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, local panchayat leaders warmly greeted Vinesh, who was disqualified at the Paris Olympics for being overweight. Heavily garlanded, Vinesh thanked her supporters from an open Jeep.

''I thank the entire country,'' she said with folded hands, under a thick security cover as she landed in Delhi.

A large caravan will escort Vinesh to her village in Haryana. Vinesh had stayed back in Paris to appeal for a joint silver, which was dismissed. London Olympics bronze medalist Gagan Narang, also on the same flight, called her a champion, praising her inspiring journey on social media.

''She arrived as a champion and remains so, inspiring millions without the need for an Olympic medal,'' Narang posted.

Her brother Harvinder Phogat noted that villagers are eagerly waiting to welcome her home and offer encouragement.

(With inputs from agencies.)