Balachaur village bids farewell to kabaddi player Rana Balachauria

Residents of Chankoya village in Balachaur bade a tearful farewell to their beloved 29-year-old kabaddi player and promoter, Kanwar Digvijay Singh, alias Rana Balachauria, who was shot dead in Mohali on Monday.

Rana Balachauria, fondly known as ‘Diggu’, had recently begun a new chapter in his life, having got married on December 4. A grand wedding reception was held on December 6, attended by villagers and well-wishers. Just days later, tragedy struck when he travelled to Mohali to attend a kabaddi match.

Recalling his last interaction with Diggu, who was also a gym enthusiast, village sarpanch Naresh Kumar said the young sportsman had promised them he would be back the same night. “But this unfortunate incident has left us completely devastated. He was extremely loving and friendly, which is evident from the massive gathering at his cremation,” the sarpanch said.

Naresh Kumar added that Digvijay’s association with kabaddi began at a very young age. “He must have been in Class VII when he started playing kabaddi, and after that there was no looking back. He made a name for himself and inspired many youngsters in the village,” he said.

Villagers have demanded strict and swift action against those responsible for the killing. They also appealed to authorities and the public not to link Digvijay’s name with any controversies or rumours. “He and his family are well respected and have always maintained a good reputation,” the sarpanch said.

Another villager, who attended Digvijay’s wedding just days ago, said, “He was so happy. It is hard to believe he is no more. We want the truth to come out and justice to be served.”

A pall of sorrow continues to hang over Chankoya village as residents remember Digvijay Singh as a talented sportsperson, and a warm-hearted individual.