Urges youth to stay away from drugs, other social evils
Subhash Mahajan
Chamba: The remote panchayat of Baghaigarh in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh burst into celebration on Friday (November 28, 2025) as local kabaddi star Champa Thakur, a member of the world champion Indian women’s kabaddi team, returned home to a hero’s welcome.
As her vehicle reached Bakhri Mod, Bhalei and Koti areas in Dalhousie constituency, residents lined up along the road, showering her with flower garlands and raising enthusiastic chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai!” The young athlete proudly held up her medal, acknowledging the cheering crowds with smiles and folded hands.
Visuals from the homecoming show jubilant locals welcoming her, waving flags and capturing the moment on their phones, while Champa posed with her medal for the cameras.
Speaking to the media, Champa Thakur said she was overwhelmed by the love and support from her district. “It is a matter of immense pride for me to be a part of the world champion Indian women’s kabaddi team,” she said. Champa credited the Sports Authority of India (SAI) hostel in Dharamshala for shaping her as an athlete. “I learnt a lot during my training at SAI Dharamshala and that discipline and coaching helped me achieve this success,” she added.
She also delivered a message to the youth: “Stay away from drugs and other social evils. Adopt sports as a way of life and success will surely follow.” With her victory inspiring hundreds across the region, Champa Thakur’s homecoming turned into a celebration of both sporting excellence and community pride.
