Golden Welcome: Mary Kom Receives Hero's Reception in Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 3, 2014 – Asian Games gold medalist MC Mary Kom received a rapturous welcome as hundreds of fans from the Northeast community gathered at Indira Gandhi International Airport late Thursday night to greet the “Queen of Boxing” after her stunning victory in Incheon, South Korea.

Arriving at around 1 a.m., “Magnificent Mary” was met by an excited crowd that had been eagerly waiting at Gate 6 for hours. Although security arrangements initially caused some confusion, with Mary being redirected to a different exit, the crowd’s energy remained unshaken. Fans and media alike rushed from gate to gate, determined to catch a glimpse of their hero.

Amidst tight security, Mary Kom, a five-time world champion and mother of three, was quickly surrounded by reporters and supporters as she exited the airport. Many fans, who had brought flowers and traditional shawls to honor her, struggled to reach her in the packed crowd. One fan, Mr. Pritam from Manipur, lamented, “I bought flowers for Rs 500 but didn’t get the chance to give them.”

The airport was adorned with heartfelt placards: “Queen of the Ring, MC Mary Kom, Congratulations,” “Golden Lady of India, JAI HO!”, and “Unbreakable Mary, Unbreakable Northeast India.” The crowd erupted with chants of “Long Live Mary Kom,” celebrating her incredible victory against Kazakhstan’s Zhaina Shekerbekova in the final bout.

Not far behind Mary Kom, fellow boxer Laishram Sarita Devi, whose controversial semi-final loss to South Korea’s Park Jina sparked widespread outrage, was also greeted with cheers. Fans held placards declaring, “YOU ARE A CHAMPION FOR US, SARITA” and “YOUR TEARS ARE OUR TEARS,” showing solidarity with the boxer whose courage and resilience inspired many.

As both champions waved to their supporters and entered their vehicles, the celebration in the capital marked a proud moment for Indian sports and a shining testament to the indomitable spirit of these athletes.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

(for The Mizoram Post | Easter Chronicle | The Northeast Today | Zogam Today)

 

 

 

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