Rohtak's Wrestling Prodigy Ritu Receives Best Wishes from PM Modi Ahead of Olympics

Ritu, a native of the village of Kharkara in Rohtak, received a heartwarming letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extending his best wishes for her upcoming journey to the Olympics in Paris. The letter comes as Ritu, the first Indian woman wrestler to clinch a gold medal at the Under-23 World Championship, prepares to represent the nation on the global stage. 

Ritu's father, retired army officer Jagbir Hooda, revealed that she has two siblings. Her elder brother, Rohit Hooda, serves in the army and has been a wrestler, while Ritu, the younger one, began her wrestling journey in 2015 when she was in the ninth grade. Ritu practices at the Chotu Ram Stadium in Rohtak, dedicating herself to rigorous training sessions.

Through her dedication and hard work, Ritu has achieved numerous awards over the past nine years. Notably, in 2023, she secured a gold medal at the Under-23 World Championship in Tirana, Albania, marking her as India's first female wrestler to achieve such a feat. Prior to this, only one male Indian wrestler had clinched gold at the Under-23 World Championship. Additionally, Ritu has excelled in various other competitions including the Inter-University, Khelo India, and Maharashtra Kesari tournaments, where she has consistently secured gold medals. 

Ritu's selection for the Paris Olympics came after her impressive performance during trials held on March 11th. The Prime Minister's letter, received by Ritu at her residence via postal mail, not only conveys best wishes for her quest to win medals but also praises her talent and dedication. Expressing delight at receiving the letter from the Prime Minister, Ritu's father, Jagbir Hooda, noted that her enthusiasm has doubled as she gears up to represent India at the Olympics. 

Ritu's journey exemplifies the determination and talent present in India's sports arena, with her success inspiring aspiring athletes across the country. As she embarks on her Olympic journey, the nation eagerly awaits her performance on the global stage, hopeful for her to bring home laurels and make India proud.