In a devastating turn of events at the Paris Olympics 2024, India's hopes were shattered when Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from her 50 kg weight category for being just 100 grams overweight. The news spread like wildfire, igniting an outpouring of emotions and reactions from across the country.
Among the many voices expressing their sorrow and support were some of India's most prominent celebrities, who took to social media to stand by the wrestling star. At the forefront of these reactions was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose heartfelt tweet resonated with millions.
Modi praised Phogat, calling her "a champion among champions" and "India's pride." He acknowledged the pain of her setback, expressing his deep sense of despair. Yet, in his message, he also emphasized Phogat's resilience, urging her to "come back stronger."
Bollywood was also quick to rally behind Phogat, with actors like Alia Bhatt, Samantha Prabhu, Vicky Kaushal, Huma Qureshi, Arjun Rampal, and Rahul Dholakia sharing their thoughts on the shocking disqualification.
Huma Qureshi voiced her disbelief, pleading for a way to allow Phogat to compete. Arjun Rampal, equally stunned, questioned the fairness of the decision, expressing hope that it could be overturned. Rahul Dholakia, on the other hand, succinctly captured the sentiment of many with his words: "Heartbreaking #VineshPhogat - you are our Heroine #1."
Elvish Yadav hints towards inconsistencies
The controversy surrounding Phogat's disqualification was further highlighted by social media influencer Elvish Yadav, who drew attention to what he perceived as inconsistencies in the competition's criteria. He pointed out the apparent disparity between Phogat's disqualification and other developments in the Olympics, raising questions about the integrity of the evaluation process.
Support for Phogat continued to pour in from the sports community, with Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra expressing his sorrow. He reminded everyone that one doesn't need a gold medal to be a true champion, a sentiment echoed by many.
Bollywood icons like Preity Zinta, Alia Bhatt, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu also expressed their unwavering support. Zinta's message was filled with empathy and encouragement, telling Phogat that she is "pure Gold to every Indian" and reminding her that tough times don’t last, but tough people do.
Alia Bhatt, in an emotional Instagram story, hailed Phogat as an "inspiration to the entire nation," praising her resilience and courage. Samantha Ruth Prabhu shared a powerful image of Vinesh Phogat, commending her ability to persist despite the challenges and assuring her that she is never alone.
Here are some reactions:
Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024
Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always…
Please tell me something can be done 🙈 They have to let her fight 🇮🇳 @Phogat_Vinesh @Olympics @OGQ_India @IndianOlympians
— Huma Qureshi (@humasqureshi) August 7, 2024
No way. They disqualified Vinesh Phogat for being over weight by 150gms.? This can’t be real please tell me this isn’t real. Tell me this can change. There is hope. #VineshPhogat #wrestling #OlimpiadasParis2024 #Unfair #HeartBreaking
— arjun rampal (@rampalarjun) August 7, 2024
Heartbreaking 💔 #VineshPhohat - u r our Heroine #1. #Respect
— rahul dholakia (@rahuldholakia) August 7, 2024
In a significant and controversial development at the Paris Olympics, a male athlete has been declared a woman, thereby being permitted to compete in the women's category.
— Elvish Yadav (@ElvishYadav) August 7, 2024
On the other hand Indian wrestler #Phogat_Vinesh , who has previously demonstrated her prowess by defeating… pic.twitter.com/TgOMBG6PXR
Completely gutted . Sometimes u dont need a gold medal to be a true champion to people….
— Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) August 7, 2024
Dear @Phogat_Vinesh You are pure Gold to every Indian rooting for you. A champion of champions & a hero to all the women of India. I’m so sorry for how things turned out for you. Chin up & be strong. Life is not always fair 💔 Tough times don’t last but tough people do. Wish I… pic.twitter.com/xuFS4l12GN
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) August 7, 2024