On Raksha Bandhan, Vinesh posted a heartfelt update on social media, revealing a wad of 500 rupee notes from her brother. “I am almost 30 years old. Last year he gave me 500 rupees. And now he has given me this (points to the money). This is how much he has earned in his entire life (jokingly),” Vinesh shared, making both her and her brother smile.
During her journey from Delhi to Balali, Vinesh was honoured by her devotees and local ‘Khap’ panchayats. The 135 km journey took about 13 hours due to numerous celebrations along the way.
This reception was in stark contrast to the disappointment she experienced at the Olympics, where her disqualification for being overweight sparked outrage in India and the wrestling community. Her appeal against the disqualification was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
When Vinesh arrived in her village around midnight, she was greeted with tears and smiles by friends and neighbours who praised her bravery. Despite her exhaustion, she addressed the crowd and expressed hope that future wrestlers from Balali will surpass her feats.
“It would be disheartening if no one from this village took up wrestling. With our success, we have paved a path and given hope. I request everyone to support the women here. They need your encouragement to succeed in the future,” said Vinesh.
Emphasizing her gratitude for the love and support she has received, she said, “Whatever I have learnt in wrestling, be it by God’s grace or my hard work, I want to share it with the girls from this village. I hope they reach even greater heights than me.”
Before reaching Balali, Vinesh had expressed her determination to continue her fight against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). “Thank you to everyone who has supported us. Life is a battle and our fight is not over yet. We will continue and with God’s grace, truth will prevail,” she said.
In a brief conversation with the press in Balali, she spoke about the deep wound of her Olympic disappointment, but remained determined about her future. “I am not sure if I should continue to pursue wrestling, but I want to channel the courage I gained today in the right direction,” she concluded.
