Amit Rohidas family, villagers in festive mood after Hockey India’s victory in Paris Olympics
By Sukant Mohanty
Bhubaneswar, Aug. 9: India team clinched the bronze medal in men’s hockey after finishing third in the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics by beating Spain 2-1 in the third-position play-off encounter. Following India’s fabulous victory, star Odia defender Amit Rohidas’s family members are quite elated now. Amit was part of the bronze-winning Indian hockey team as the only Odia player. His village Saunamara in Odisha’s Sundergarh district is currently on a festive mood following the thrilling victory.
Amit’s mother Golapi Rohidas was proud of her son’s performance for the national team. She also hoped that her son Amit would continue to enhance his game further and play in the Indian team for a long time.
“Soon after the match, Amit talked to us over a video call. We were very happy as India won the match against Spain in the play-off game and settled for the bronze medal. He was the only Odia player in the Indian team,” said Golapi.
“Thanks to the Indian team and my son for playing so well in the mega event. We watched the entire match against Spain. We are proud of our players for their brilliant show,” she added.
“We were praying for India’s victory. We were overwhelmed after India managed to win the bronze medal by beating Spain. We watched the entire match and the medal ceremony till 1.30 pm. When Amit returns from Paris, we will welcome him in a grand way,” said his sister-in-law.
Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a special cash award of Rs 4 crore for Amit.
Amit received a red card in India’s quarterfinal hockey match against Great Britain. Subsequently, he was suspended from playing in the semifinal against Germany. However, the star defender returned to the team for the all-important play-off match against Spain and played a crucial role in the team’s fighting victory.
