World Cup champion returns to Rohru amid drums, cheers and emotional celebrations
TNR News Network
Shimla: India’s Women Cricket World Cup-winning pacer Renuka Thakur returned to her native place Rohru in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday (November 9, 2025) to scenes that resembled a grand festival, as thousands lined the route to celebrate their hometown hero.
But it wasn’t just the rousing reception that lit up her homecoming — the star bowler also revived an old anecdote that had the crowd smiling: whenever she introduced herself as being from Parsa, people outside Himachal often misheard it as Paris. “Today, the whole country knows Parsa,” she said, drawing loud cheers.
‘Carried on shoulders, welcomed with drums’: Village celebrates its champion
Renuka’s journey home began early morning from Chandigarh. By afternoon, she reached the Hateshwari (Hatkoti) Temple, where she prayed alongside her mother Sunita Thakur, brother Vinod and other family members. From there, the victory procession took on festive colours — youth danced to pahadi nati instruments, women showered her with flowers and supporters lifted her onto their shoulders as she passed through Mahendli and surrounding villages.
In Rohru, MLA Mohan Lal Brakta and the local administration formally honoured her. Many accompanied her all the way to Parsa, where a traditional dham feast awaited.
‘Hard work never fails’: Renuka credits mother, uncle and team spirit
Speaking to the media, Renuka said she owes her discipline to her mother and her career direction to her uncle, Bhupinder Thakur, who recognised her talent early on. “This journey has been full of pressure and constant learning. In the dressing room, we try to keep the mood light because the tension of a World Cup never leaves you,” she said.
She added that the first congratulatory announcement after India’s triumphant campaign came from the Himachal Pradesh government. “Meeting the Prime Minister was a proud moment. When governments identify talent early and support it, every youngster gets a fair chance to dream big,” she said. Renuka also believes the World Cup win will inspire many more girls to take up cricket.
‘Fulfilled her father’s dream’: Renuka’s mother gets emotional
At her Parsa home, emotions ran high. Renuka’s mother Sunita said her daughter had brought honour to their village, state and country. Renuka’s father Kehar Singh had passed away when she was just two years old. “Her father is not here to witness this day, but Renuka has fulfilled his dream through hard work and the blessings of our community,” she said.
Uncle Bhupinder added that Renuka always approached him directly whenever she struggled with anything on or off the field. “She never hesitated to speak her mind. That honesty and discipline brought her here,” he said.
