India's Commonwealth Games stars return home to a rousing welcome

Commonwealth Games (CWG), have started returning home to warm receptions on the beat of dhols and garlands giving the IGI airport a festive look. Among those who have arrived since Monday night include the boxing contingent led by Amit Panghal, the athletics and wrestling teams and the para powerlifters. It was a truly memorable moment for Bajrang Punia, Deepak Punia, Sakshi Malik and the entire wrestling contingent when it touched down here, with the celebrated grapplers being mobbed the moment they entered the arrival lounge.

"Our Dhakad (braveheart) Wrestlers Are Back. Indian Wrestling contingent is back after a spectacular performance at #CommonwealthGames2022. Let's greet them with our wishes & continue to #Cheer4India. Welcome back Champs!" tweeted the Sports Authority of India, with a video of the players at the airport lounge being garlanded by fans. Led by gold medallist pugilist Panghal, the boxing contingent too arrived in the early hours on Monday to a rousing welcome, with SAI tweeting, "Indian Boxing contingent is back home after a splendid display of grit, power, tenacity & determination at #CommonwealthGames2022. Join us in welcoming them with your wishes & continue to #Cheer4India. Welcome back Champs!"

The wrestling, boxing and athletics contingents arrived in India around the time the closing ceremony was taking place in Birmingham. Celebrated India table tennis player Achanta Sharath Kamal, who won four medals, including the men's singles title, and boxer Nikhat Zareen, who also won a gold medal, were India's flagbearers at the opening ceremony. The hockey, badminton and table tennis contingents are expected to return later on Tuesday.