Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s very own hockey sensation, Amit Rohidas, was greeted with grandeur and adulation upon his return from the Paris Olympics, where he helped India win a bronze medal.
Rohidas, who hails from Saunamara village in Sundergarh district, was greeted by fans, family, and officials at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
Rohidas, who is the first Odia player to win consecutive Olympic medals, was felicitated by Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh. He was also showered with praise by fans, who hailed him as a hero.
It is pertinent to mention that the state government has announced a cash reward of Rs 4 crore for Rohidas, while the Indian hockey team players will receive Rs 15 lakh each and the support staff Rs 10 lakh each.
Rohidas, who played a crucial role in India’s success in Paris, dedicated his medal to the people of Odisha and thanked Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their support. He is scheduled to meet CM today.
He also expressed his gratitude to his family, coaches, and teammates for their encouragement.
Talking to the media, Amit assured that he will take hockey to new heights in the future.
