Three members of India’s gold medal-winning women’s kabaddi team received a warm reception in Dharamsala after returning from the Asian Games 2026, where India reclaimed the women’s title with victory over Iran.
Pushpa Rana, Jyoti Thakur and Bhawna Thakur were welcomed by coaches, fellow athletes and officials at the Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Excellence, where all three developed into international players.
SAI Dharamsala Celebrates Its Champions
The celebrations marked another milestone for the Dharamsala training centre, which has produced several national-level kabaddi players over the years.
Assistant Director and Centre In-charge Jai Prakash Shani praised the trio for their dedication throughout the national camp and tournament.
“It is a matter of real joy for all of us that these three girls have, through sheer hard work, earned a gold at such a prestigious tournament,” he said.
According to Shani, the players spent the previous four months in the national training camp, where their performances earned them places in India’s Asian Games squad before contributing strongly throughout the competition.
Pushpa Rana Reflects On Her Journey
India captain Pushpa Rana, who comes from Millah village in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district, described patience and hard work as the keys to her success.
“Dream very high, plough in hard work and keep the patience to ensure the fulfilment of them,” she said while reflecting on her journey from village-level kabaddi to the Asian Games podium.
Years of Development Pay Off
Jyoti Thakur, a right-corner defender from Solan district, balanced her sporting career with higher education and completed a Master’s degree in Sociology while progressing through the national ranks.
Bhawna Thakur also emerged through the Dharamsala programme before earning her place in the Indian team. The trio trained under coach Pooja, whose guidance helped develop their technical skills, physical conditioning and competitive mindset.
Their success was celebrated throughout the training centre, with current trainees welcoming the returning champions with flowers and applause.
Inspiration for Future Athletes
Officials believe the achievement will motivate the next generation of athletes training at the SAI centre.
Shani said young players now have tangible examples of how dedication and consistent training can lead to international success. “It is an inspiring journey. The present trainees can see how their seniors have made such a big leap,” he said.
For Dharamsala, the return of three Asian Games gold medallists highlighted the centre’s contribution to Indian kabaddi and reinforced its reputation as one of the country’s important development hubs.
Players Seek Government Support
Following their return, the three players also appealed to the Himachal Pradesh government to consider providing employment opportunities in recognition of their international achievements and long-standing contribution to Indian kabaddi.
The athletes expressed hope that greater institutional support would encourage more young sportspersons from the state to pursue careers in kabaddi.
