Sakshi Malik, the New Face of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao in Haryana

After making history at Rio, Sakshi was welcomed in Delhi amidst raucous celebration. (Photo Courtesy: Twitter @ANI_news)

After making history at the Rio Olympics, Indian wrestler Sakshi Malik came home in the wee hours of Wednesday morning to a grand welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

She was felicitated by Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar upon her arrival in Bahadurgarh. Later in the morning, she was named the face of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao in Haryana.

It was my biggest dream to win a medal for India at the Olympics. I was preparing for this for last 12 years.

Sakshi Malik

The bronze medallist has received a cheque for Rs 2.5 crore from the Haryana government.

I want to thank everyone for their support, hope to continue to receive such support in future as well.

Sakshi Malik

As people from her village in Rohtak, Sakshi’s well-wishers and innumerable media persons crowded the arrival area with Indian flags, banners and cameras, Sakshi could hardly be seen as she exited, amidst the loud noise of the dholwalas and cheers.

Proud and emotional, Sakshi’s family were overjoyed to have the wrestler home as they revealed a long list of festivities that await her.

Haryana’s sports and youth affairs minister Anil Vij, who was present in Rio as head of state delegation, accompanied the star wrestler on the return flight.

It is a great feeling... the reception I got. It’s a proud moment for me. 

Sakshi Malik

Also Read: Grand Welcome Awaits Rio Olympics Medallist Sakshi Malik at Home

(With inputs from ANI and IANS)