Manipuris shower big praise on 'courageous' Mary

She might have had to settle for a bronze medal after losing in the Olympics semi-finals but woman boxer M C Mary Kom (51kg) has won accolades from her fellow Manipuris for her grit and determination.

"We are very much proud of Mary for her determination and courage which has brought a bronze medal for the country," her former coach Ibomcha Singh said.

"We are very happy that Mary has won a bronze medal and it is matter of pride for the country and for a small state like Manipur," Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said adding that process for promoting Mary in the state police department was over.

Meanwhile, a grand welcome awaits the Manipuri pugilist when she arrives home in the next few days.

Several civil organisations said they were prepared to turn out in large numbers to receive the Olympic medal holder when she returns home.

On Wednesday, all roads in Imphal town wore a deserted look before the start of her bout as people remained indoors to watch the match between Mary Kom and Nicola Adams of Great Britain.

Several localities in Imphal and surrounding areas switched on their generators to run television sets since there was no power supply during the bout, it was reported.

Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com