Bhubaneswar: Asian Games gold medallists Amit Rohidas and Shilanand Lakra received a warm welcome in Bhubaneswar Tuesday after returning home following India’s title-winning campaign in the men’s hockey competition at the 2026 Asian Games.
The two Odisha players were greeted by family members, fans and representatives of the state Sports Department at the Bhubaneswar airport. India’s victory marked the men’s hockey team’s fifth Asian Games gold medal.
𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀’ 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗢𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮’𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀
#Odisha’s hockey heroes Amit Rohidas and Shilanand Lakra received a warm and enthusiastic welcome on their arrival in Bhubaneswar following their stellar performance at the Asian Games 2026 where they not only bagged a Gold but also qualified for LA28.
Additional Secretary, DSYS, Sri B. K. Swain, along with senior officials of DSYS and @OdishaHockey welcomed the players.
#OdishaForHockey #AsianGames2026
— Odisha Sports (@sports_odisha) October 6, 2026
Rohidas thanked fans and Sports Department and Odisha government for the reception and said the team had faced strong competition throughout the tournament.
Shilanand Lakra also lauded the team’s performance, saying every player gave their best throughout the tournament. He credited the team’s confidence for helping the players handle pressure against Japan and other strong opponents.
The players expressed gratitude for the support they received from their families and fans during their campaign.