Episode 5 of Rise and Fall took an emotional turn when contestant Sangeeta Phogat opened up about her sister Vinesh Phogat’s heartbreaking Olympic struggle at the Paris Games. Known for being one of India’s most compelling wrestlers, Vinesh had stunned the world by defeating defending champion Yui Susaki before facing a cruel disqualification over a minor weight issue.
On the show, Sangeeta revealed the drastic measures Vinesh had taken to make the 50kg weight category. “She gave blood, cut off her hair, wore a smaller singlet — she tried everything. Still, she fell short by just 100 grams,” Sangeeta recalled, her voice heavy with emotion.
A painful chapter in Indian wrestling
At the Paris Olympics, Vinesh had nearly starved herself, spent hours in the sauna, and even resorted to cutting her hair to shed the last few grams. Despite her efforts, she was disqualified, with Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman replacing her in the final against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States.
It was an agonizing moment for Indian fans who had already begun celebrating a sure-shot medal. For Vinesh, it was the end of the road, as she later announced her retirement: “Wrestling won and I lost. My dreams are shattered. I don’t have any more strength.”
Sangeeta’s moment on Rise and Fall
Now, with Sangeeta competing as a contestant on Rise and Fall, the incident resurfaced during a reflective conversation on Episode 5. Contestants listened closely as she shared how the Phogat family endured the pain of watching Vinesh’s sacrifice end in heartbreak.
“It was not just about the weight; it was about years of sacrifice, blood, and sweat. For us, it will always remain one of the hardest memories,” she said.
Her emotional revelation gave viewers a glimpse into the struggles beyond the sporting arena, reminding everyone that behind every athlete’s glory lies untold sacrifice and moments of unbearable loss.
