Udaipur: Indian lacrosse players who brought laurels to the country with their impressive performance at an international competition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, received a grand welcome on their arrival in Udaipur.

The Indian women’s team returned with a bronze medal, while members of the men’s team and coach Neeraj Batra were also felicitated at Udaipur Railway Station. Family members, sports enthusiasts and residents welcomed the players with flower garlands, fireworks and patriotic slogans, including “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.”

Several talented players from Udaipur’s tribal belt played a key role in the women’s team’s achievement. Captain Dali Gameti, along with Sunita Meena, Yashistha Batra, Jula Kumari Gurjar, Meera Douja, Vishakha Meghwal, Yashoda Gameti, Roshni Bose and Janhvi Rathore, represented India in the championship.

The men’s team included Mohan Lal Gameti, Nishant Nagda, Khuma Ram Gameti, Dayashankar Gameti and Narayan Lal Gameti. Under the guidance of coach Neeraj Batra, the players delivered a strong performance at the international level.

As the players reached the railway station, a large number of family members, villagers and sports lovers gathered to greet them. The celebrations created an atmosphere of pride and joy as local athletes returned after representing India on the global stage.

Among those present were former Dhar Gram Panchayat sarpanch Shantilal Gameti, Bhagwati Devi, Ram Gameti, Nanalal, Chaman Lal, Chatra Ram, principal Bhavana Gurjar, YouTuber Govind Od, Sunil Sen and representatives from Punjabi Bagh and Arihant Nagar societies, including Revat Singh Rathore, Naresh Singh Rathore, Sulochana Devi, Govind Singh and Sharda Sharma. Representatives and residents from Titardi, Jhadol and Bhinder also attended the welcome ceremony.

The players and supporters expressed gratitude to Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, elected representatives, lacrosse promoters, Regional Tribal Development Department Commissioner Pragya Kevalramani and Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Ltd. for their encouragement, support and contribution toward promoting the sport.

Inspiration for Tribal Youth

Speakers at the reception said the players’ international achievement has created a new source of inspiration for young people in the tribal region. They said the athletes have demonstrated that determination, discipline and sustained hard work can help talented youngsters reach the international stage despite limited resources.