Renuka Singh to Return Home After a Week; Will First Offer Prayers at Hatkoti Temple Before Celebratory Dham

Published By: Kumud Sharma | DiaryTimesDesk | November 4, 2025

Preparations are in full swing to welcome home Renuka Singh Thakur, star bowler of the Indian women’s cricket team and member of the World Cup–winning squad. Excitement is high in her native Parsa village in Himachal Pradesh’s Shimla district, where her family and locals are gearing up for a grand celebration.

According to family sources, before heading home, Renuka will visit the revered Hatkoti Temple to offer prayers to Goddess Hateshwari. Only afterward will she proceed to her village for the homecoming festivities.

Her family shared that after India’s historic World Cup victory, the celebrations at home went on through the night, with friends and relatives joining in. A traditional feast (dham) was held at their residence on Monday. In an exclusive conversation with Amar Ujala, Renuka’s mother Sunita Thakur said that her daughter is currently resting in Mumbai and will return home in about a week. “We are all eagerly waiting to speak with her,” she said, adding that relatives and well-wishers have been calling nonstop.

Sunita Thakur recalled that Renuka’s cricketing journey began when she was just 12 years old, after her uncle recognized her talent and helped her enroll in the Dharamshala Cricket Academy. Renuka’s late father, Kehar Singh Thakur, was an avid cricket enthusiast who dreamed of seeing his children play the sport. “If he were alive today,” Sunita said emotionally, “he would have been filled with pride to see Renuka achieve this milestone.”

Speaking about her daughter’s preferences, Sunita mentioned that Renuka enjoys simple meals, but for her homecoming, the family will prepare her favorite traditional dishes — mash ke bade, puri, siddu, and other Himachali delicacies. The entire village is also planning a community feast and cultural celebration.

Since Sunday, music and traditional Nati dance have echoed through Parsa village, as residents celebrate Renuka’s achievement with enthusiasm. Guests and villagers alike have been visiting her home, where food and festivities have continued nonstop.

Sunita concluded with a heartfelt message: “Parents always struggle and sacrifice for their children. It’s important for children to balance freedom with responsibility while pursuing their dreams.” She also urged society to encourage daughters and stay away from drugs, emphasizing the need for positive role models for the younger generation.