Bollywood Rallies Behind Vinesh Phogat: ‘You Are Gold, Iron, Steel’

The Indian film industry has shown an outpouring of support for wrestler Vinesh Phogat following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 finals due to being ‘overweight.’ This shocking decision, announced just minutes before the finals, has left many heartbroken. Several Bollywood stars took to social media to express their solidarity with the Indian grappler, highlighting her resilience and courage.

Alia Bhatt’s Heartfelt Message

Actor Alia Bhatt, a prominent voice among the supporters, called Vinesh Phogat a “champion for ages.” Alia expressed that while Vinesh and the whole country are deeply affected by her disqualification, nothing can take away her courage, resilience, and the hardships she has endured.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, Alia wrote, “Vinesh Phogat, you are an inspiration to the entire nation. Nothing can take away your resilience, nothing can take away your courage, and nothing can take away the hardships you’ve been through to create history! Today you must be heartbroken, to say the least, and we are heartbroken with you. But woman, you are gold—you are iron, and you are steel! Nothing can take that away from you! A champion for the ages! There is no one like you.”

Support from Bollywood Celebrities

Other Bollywood celebrities also voiced their support for Phogat. Farhan Akhtar shared a picture of Vinesh on Instagram, writing, “Dear @vineshphogat, one can only try and imagine how devastated you must be but still not fully understand. Heartbroken for you that the quest ended like this. But please know that we are all very proud of you and all you have done for the sport. You will always be a champion and an inspiration to millions. Keep your chin up.”

Director Zoya Akhtar added her voice, sharing an Instagram post that read, “Champion @vineshphogat You are gold! What you have achieved is beyond medals. So proud. So inspired.” Dia Mirza commented, “Absolutely.”

Actress Sonakshi Sinha expressed her heartbreak on Instagram, writing, “Unbelievable! I can’t imagine how you’re feeling right now and don’t know what to say except you were, are, and always will be a champion!! @vineshphogat.” Taapsee Pannu and Bhumi Pednekar also shared their support, highlighting Phogat’s courage and strength. Rakul Preet Singh shared her feelings on Instagram Stories, simply noting, “Heartbreaking,” accompanied by a broken heart emoticon.

Hope for Future Medals

As India copes with this setback, the nation continues to hope for medals from other athletic events. Avinash Sable is set to compete in the 3000-meter Steeplechase final, weightlifter Mirabai Chanu will compete in the Women’s 49 KG category, and wrestler Antim Panghal will enter her Round of 16 bout in the Women’s Freestyle 53 KG category. Neeraj Chopra, the gold medalist from the Tokyo Olympics, aims for the podium again in the finals. Additionally, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team will play for the bronze medal against Spain.

So far, India has secured three medals at the Paris Olympics, all in shooting events. This has been a proud moment for the country, showcasing the talent and hard work of its athletes. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the support from fellow athletes, Bollywood celebrities, and the government continues to inspire and motivate the Indian contingent. Vinesh Phogat’s story, marked by her resilience and determination, remains a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes.