Superstar Aamir Khan recently connected with Indian wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat via video call, stirring excitement and speculation among netizens about the possibility of a sequel to his acclaimed film ‘Dangal’. This interaction followed Phogat’s return to India from the Paris Olympics 2024, where she etched her name in history with a remarkable semifinal victory in the women’s 50 kg category before an unfortunate disqualification halted her quest for gold.
Upon her return, Aamir Khan took the opportunity to personally congratulate the trailblazing wrestler for her extraordinary performance. The actor has been closely linked to the Phogat family through his 2016 blockbuster ‘Dangal’, a biographical sports drama based on the life of Mahavir Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita. Vinesh Phogat, as Mahavir’s niece, is part of this legacy, making Khan’s gesture particularly heartfelt and symbolic.
In visuals that swiftly made their way across social media platforms, Aamir Khan is seen interacting warmly with Phogat, acknowledging her immense talent, perseverance, and grit. The actor’s fan pages also joined in the celebration, sharing snippets of their conversation. One post read, “Good touch from Aamir Khan. Over a video call, he congratulated Vinesh Phogat for her stupendous fight in Paris. Reminded her that her three fights were proof of her champion mentality. Former wrestler Kripa Shankar (also in the pic), who was mentor for the actors of Dangal.”
Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics was one of high drama and emotional peaks. She achieved a historical milestone by reaching the semifinals, defeating formidable rivals. However, her Olympic dreams were truncated right before the final match due to a heart-wrenching disqualification for being overweight by 100 grams in the 50 kg category. Despite this setback, her remarkable journey and fierce determination have been widely lauded.
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On her return to India, Phogat was celebrated not only by admirers nationwide but also honored with a gold medal by the Sarvkhap Panchayat in Rohtak. This ceremony underscored the community’s pride and recognition of her efforts, despite the Olympic outcome. At a felicitation event, an emotional Phogat expressed her gratitude, “My fight has not ended, it has rather just begun. The fight for our daughters’ honour has just started. We said the same thing during our sit-in.”
Phogat also addressed a broader issue, reflecting on her role in the agitation against the Wrestling Federation of India’s former chief and BJP leader Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexual harassment. Her stance during this difficult period underscored her resolve and commitment not only to her sport but to the broader cause of justice and fairness within the wrestling community.
Reflecting on her mixed emotions after the Paris experience, Phogat shared, “When I could not play in Paris, I thought I was very unfortunate but after returning to India and experiencing all the love and support here, I feel that I am very fortunate.” Her words highlighted the invaluable support from her community and how it empowers athletes, especially women, to persevere despite adversities.
Such gestures of recognition, according to Phogat, will undeniably inspire and encourage other women athletes by demonstrating that their communities stand firmly behind them, even during challenging times. “I will forever be indebted for this honour which is above any medal,” Phogat said, emphasizing the deeper significance of community support over mere accolades.
Meanwhile, the dialogue between Aamir Khan and Vinesh Phogat has ignited speculation among fans and the general public about the possibility of a cinematic sequel. Given the enormous success of ‘Dangal’, many are hopeful that Khan might portray another chapter of the Phogat family’s inspiring story, this time focusing on Vinesh’s exploits and struggles.
While there has been no official confirmation regarding ‘Dangal 2’, the synergy between Aamir Khan and Vinesh Phogat certainly fuels the imagination. As netizens continue to buzz about a potential new film, the story of Vinesh Phogat’s resilience and indomitable spirit serves as an inspiring narrative befitting the silver screen.
