Ludhiana: Hero's welcome for Gurdeep Singh

LUDHIANA: Gurdeep Singh Dullet, who won Bronze Medal in weight-lifting in the Commonwealth Games at Birmingham, came home to a hero's welcome on Sunday. His home in Khanna was decorated and his favourite dishes had been cooked.

Gurdeep, 27, son of a farmer from Majri Rasoolra village, won the bronze medal in weightlifting in the 109-plus kilograms event at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. His father Bhag Singh said that his son had returned from Birmingham on Saturday but had gone to the National Institute of Sports in Patiala, where he stayed the night. He added that on Sunday, he was first welcomed by the MLA and representatives of the administration, among others on GT road near Khanna before he reached home around evening.

"To welcome him, we decorated the house with flowers etc. We got Dal, Sabzi, Tandoori Roti and Paneer made for him," said the doting father. The house was abuzz with Gurdeep's relatives eager to celebrate with him. His sister Manvir Kaur said she was delighted to welcome her brother, who had given her a Rakhi gift.

Talking to The Times of India before he reached his home, Gurdeep Singh said he was overwhelmed by the warm welcome. He credited his victory to his team coaches and parents. On his competitor, who won gold, Gurdeep Singh said he shared a good bond with Pakistani player Nooh Butt.