Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat, recently disqualified from the 50-kg final at the Paris Games, visited the holiest of Sikh shrines, Harmandir Sahib popularly known as the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Friday to seek strength and courage.
After her prayers, Phogat expressed a sense of renewal, stating, “I am feeling good after coming here. I prayed to Waheguru for strength and courage.” She also extended her wishes for the health of loved ones and the safety and progress of her country, emphasizing her hope for guidance in serving humanity.
Accompanied by her husband, Somvir Rathee, Phogat donned traditional attire, including a saffron headscarf and a white salwar suit adorned with green patterns. The couple participated in the ritual ‘parikrama’ around the temple’s marble perimeter before bowing before the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture.
During her visit, Phogat was honored by Giani Harpreet Singh, the Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib, who presented her with a replica of the Golden Temple, a gold-plated kirpan, and a collection of books, praising her as a national pride who has brought glory to India.
Phogat’s recent Olympic experience was marred by her disqualification due to a weight issue, which ended her pursuit of a medal. Following this setback, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support on social media, acknowledging her status as a champion and encouraging her to return stronger.
The visit to the Golden Temple served as a moment of reflection and hope for Phogat as she looks to the future.
