Bhubaneswar: Fresh off their historic bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team received a rousing welcome in the city on Wednesday.
As the team landed at Biju Patnaik International Airport, they were greeted by sports minister Suryabanshi Suraj and a sea of enthusiastic supporters who were seen waving the tricolour. The atmosphere was electric as traditional Odia bands played celebratory tunes.The sounds of dhols and conch shells added to the festive spirit.
As the team travelled from the airport to Kalinga Stadium on a bus, people of all ages lined the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the hockey stars. At the stadium, the players interacted with their supporters and a cultural event was organised.
Subsequently, the team was felicitated by chief minister Mohan Majhi at the convention centre in Lok Seva Bhawan and at Kalinga Stadium. “I congratulate team India for making us proud. This award recognises their stellar performance. Their dedication, skill and perseverance have not only brought pride to the nation but have also inspired the next generation. The state remains committed to supporting athletes and nurturing future talent,” said Majhi.
Three-time Olympian and goalkeeper P R Sreejesh said, “Odisha is our second home. The kind of love and support we receive from the people here is unique and always motivates us on the field. We cannot find words to thank the people of Odisha for their love for the Indian hockey team.”
State govt, official sponsor of the men’s and women’s hockey teams, had previously announced a Rs 4 crore reward for Odia defender Amit Rohidas, Rs 15 lakh cash prize for each player, and Rs 10 lakh for each member of the team’s support staff in Paris.
“It’s a dream come true to win an Olympic medal and to be welcomed back home like this. The love and support from the people of Odisha and India have been our strength throughout the tournament,” said Rohidas.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh echoed Rohidas. “The crowd’s energy in Bhubaneswar and in Rourkela is unbelievable. The support from Odisha has been incredible, and we are grateful to the people of Odisha for always standing by us,” he said.
Deputy chief ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, minister Suraj, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, development commissioner Anu Garg, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, senior govt officials and students, amonng others were present.
The men’s hockey team claimed back-to-back medals for the first time since the 1972 Munich Olympics and their 13th Olympic medal.