Indian wrestler Sangeeta Phogat has officially exited Ashneer Grover–hosted reality show Rise and Fall following a personal tragedy. The wrestler, who is married to Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia, received the heartbreaking news of her father-in-law’s death while on the show. He passed away on September 11, 2025.
On September 16, the show officials sent an alert message to the contestants in Episode 11, stating that Sangeeta Phogat has decided not to return to show.
Emotional exit from the show
A clip from earlier episode shows Sangeeta breaking down after being informed of the loss by the makers. Contestants rushed to console her as she hugged them one by one before leaving the show. Host Ashneer Grover later confirmed that Sangeeta will not be returning, marking a permanent exit.
Co-contestant Arush Bola expressed his grief:
“Kaafi bura laga jab Sangeeta ji ki aisi news aayi aur unko ghar jaana pada. But kaafi supporting thi Sangeeta ji, badhiya game khel rahi thi. Kaafi strong thi, miss karenge Sangeeta ji ko, bahar jaake try karunga milne ki.”
Family’s tribute
Outside the show, Bajrang Punia took to social media to share a heartfelt post mourning his father’s passing, writing: “बापूजी हमारे साथ नहीं रहे”. The message has since received an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow athletes.
Sangeeta, who had been performing strongly on Rise and Fall, leaves the show mid-season, with the makers confirming she will not re-enter.
