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Xtra Time Web Desk: There were wild scenes of celebrations as thousands of fans, well wishers gathered at the Imphal International airport to welcome Tokyo Olympics silver medal winner Mirabai Chanu on Tuesday afternoon. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren was at the airport as well to welcome Chanu. It was an unbelievable scene as thousands of people lined the seven km road from the airport to the City Convention Centre where Chanu was given a public reception. Chanu was seen waving at her friends, fans and spectators at the airport. On the way to the reception, she had to change places with the Chief Minister in the car to wave to fans on both sides of the road. The cheering crowds threw garlands and petals at the car.

Later at a public reception Chief Minister N. Biren handed over a cheque of Rs 1 crore along with the appointment letter as the Additional Superintendent of Police (Sports).

Reaction to the reception Chanu said, “It is because of your prayers, unwavering support and wishes that I bagged the silver medal in the event. I am so excited that I cannot speak.”

Chanu’s father Saikhom Kriti said, “She is the youngest baby out of six siblings. From the age of 12 years she indicated that she would want to become an athlete. But we are of a poor family. All we could do was to give ₹5 daily. With this pittance she used to go from our home at Nongpok Kakching to the Khuman Lampak. As bus service was unreliable she used to hitch a ride in trucks transporting sand, stones, etc.”

Later in the day, another grand reception was held at Chanu’s village Nongpok Kakching.