Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently hosted the Indian Olympic contingent from the 2024 Summer Games in Paris at his residence, 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. The event was a celebration of the athletes’ remarkable performances and a showcase of national pride and support for India’s sporting achievements.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the athletes, expressing that their presence at his official residence was a moment of great honor and pride. He emphasized that their participation and success were a testament to their hard work and determination. “It is an honour to have you all here. You are an inspiration to the youth of our nation,” Modi remarked, underscoring the positive impact of their achievements on young people across India.
The Prime Minister particularly highlighted the exceptional contributions of veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, referring to him as ‘The Wall’ for his outstanding performance. Modi praised Sreejesh’s role in the games, celebrating his resilience and dedication. “PR Sreejesh proved why he is known as ‘The Wall’,” Modi said, acknowledging the goalkeeper’s significant impact on the team’s success. He also commended all the athletes, noting that even those who did not win medals displayed remarkable spirit and determination.
The gathering featured prominent athletes including wrestler Aman Sehrawat and shuttler Lakshya Sen. Sehrawat shared his experiences and historic achievements at the Paris Games, while Sen discussed the disciplined approach taken by the team, including strict rules on mobile phone use to maintain focus and performance.
The interaction between the athletes and the Prime Minister was filled with inspiration and camaraderie. The Prime Minister’s supportive and encouraging words were complemented by the athletes’ reflections on their experiences, creating a positive and uplifting atmosphere.
A video of the interaction was posted on the Prime Minister’s official ‘X’ account, capturing the essence of the event and the engaging dialogue between Modi and the athletes. The footage highlighted the celebratory nature of the meeting and the mutual admiration shared by all participants.
The event at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg was not only a recognition of the athletes’ achievements but also a demonstration of the government’s commitment to supporting and celebrating sports excellence. Prime Minister Modi’s engagement with the Olympic contingent reflects a broader effort to promote sports and encourage young talent in India.
As the athletes prepare for future challenges, the recognition and encouragement from the Prime Minister are expected to bolster their confidence and drive. The celebration served as a reminder of the significance of sports in fostering national pride and inspiring future generations to strive for excellence on the global stage.