8 Vows, 100 Grams, and a Lifetime of Support: Vinesh Phogat’s Inspiring Story

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who narrowly missed her dream of becoming an Olympic champion due to a mere 100 grams in weight, found love in the Indian Railways with fellow wrestler Somveer Rathi. Though she couldn’t bring home a gold medal, Vinesh won the hearts of 1.4 billion Indians. Despite the disappointment, the nation salutes her spirit and hard work. In this challenging time, her pillar of strength is her life partner, Somveer, with whom she shares a story straight out of a movie.

Vinesh and Somveer’s love story began through wrestling. Both were employed through the sports quota in Indian Railways, where they met and quickly grew fond of each other. When their love blossomed, they shared it with their families, who were thrilled and supportive. The couple made their relationship official during the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, a year that brought double celebrations for Vinesh as she won a gold medal in the 50 kg category and got engaged to her dream man, Somveer.

Their engagement was unique, taking place not at home, a hotel, or a resort, but at an airport. When Vinesh returned from the Jakarta Asian Games 2018 as a champion, Somveer planned a special surprise, proposing to her with an engagement ring right at Delhi Airport.

On December 14, 2018, at the age of 23, Vinesh and Somveer got married in her hometown, Charkhi Dadri. Their wedding also had a unique touch—they took eight, instead of the traditional seven, vows, with the eighth vow dedicated to the cause of “Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter, Empower the Daughter.” Additionally, the couple used only ₹1 as a token for all wedding rituals, sending a message that extravagant spending is unnecessary.

Since their marriage, Vinesh and Somveer have stood by each other, with Somveer being her strength during tough times.