LAHORE: Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem received a hero’s welcome upon his return to his hometown of Mian Channu on Sunday.
The 27-year-old, who recently made history as Pakistan’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, was greeted by a massive crowd of adoring fans and family members.
Nadeem’s arrival at Lahore airport late Saturday night was met with fanfare, including a water cannon salute on the runway and cheers from thousands of supporters. The celebration continued inside the terminal, where he was greeted by his family, including his father, who placed a garland around his neck. Numerous government officials, including ministers and bureaucrats, were also present to honor the Olympic champion.
From Lahore, Nadeem embarked on a journey to his ancestral home in Chak 101-15L, accompanied by a grand procession complete with traditional drummers, dancing youths, and a police escort. The two-and-a-half-hour journey stretched to over six hours as the convoy took a circuitous route along the famous GT Road, where throngs of people lined the highway, eager to catch a glimpse of the national hero.
Nadeem’s procession made stops in several towns along the way, including Bhai Pheru, Pattoki, Renala Khurd, Okara, Sahiwal, and Chichawatni. Special receptions were arranged for him at various locations, where he greeted fans, received garlands, and posed for selfies.
Upon finally reaching Mian Channu, Nadeem was met with even more jubilant celebrations. As he made his way through the cheering crowd, he was reunited with his mother, Raziah Parveen. Overcome with emotion, Nadeem collapsed at her feet in a gesture of deep respect and love. She then pulled him up and embraced him, beaming with pride.
Nadeem, who began his training in local wheat fields using homemade javelins, is set to receive Pakistan’s second-highest civil award, the Hilal-i-Imtiaz, in recognition of his remarkable achievement.
