Neeraj Chopra and Himani Mor Host Their Wedding Reception
Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra and former tennis player Himani Mor celebrated their long-awaited wedding receptions nearly 11 months after their private marriage. The intimate ceremonies took place in January in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, attended only by close family and friends.
The couple finally hosted a two-part reception on December 25 in Karnal, followed by a grand event at The Leela Palace in New Delhi on December 27. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended both events as the chief guest, blessing the couple with his presence.
Background: A Year of Delayed Celebrations
Neeraj and Himani married discreetly on January 16, 2023, in a ceremony that prioritized intimacy over grandeur. The couple chose to delay their celebrations to allow Neeraj to focus entirely on his javelin training and upcoming competitions. According to reports, the decision to wait for a larger celebration came from mutual family agreement, ensuring that both Neeraj and Himani could enjoy their big day without distractions.
Highlights from the Receptions
Elegant Attire and Festive Décor
During the receptions, Neeraj wore a sophisticated black sherwani featuring gold buttons and a touch of red in his pocket square. Himani dazzled in a deep maroon bridal outfit adorned with heavy gold embroidery, showcasing her grace and elegance. For their second reception, both donned black attire embellished with golden designs, radiating style against a backdrop filled with pink and white floral arrangements.
VIP Guests and Celebratory Atmosphere
The receptions were well-attended, drawing notable politicians and sports figures. PM Modi not only attended but also presented a Lord Ram idol as a wedding gift to the couple. The guest list also included Haryana Assembly Speaker Harwinder Kalyan, BJP state president Mohan Lal Badoli, and former President Ram Nath Kovind, indicating the high-profile nature of the events.
Sports personalities graced the Karnal gathering, including boxers Rajesh Kumar Rajound and Manoj Kumar, while Haryanvi artists and writers added a local flavor to the celebrations.
A Feast of Local Flavors
The reception’s catering was a significant aspect, accommodating over 2,500 guests. To meet this demand, catering teams were specially brought in from Mumbai, ensuring a blend of traditional Haryanvi flavors while incorporating the couple’s personal tastes. Neeraj expressed his fondness for home-cooked meals, including roti with ghee-bura, chutney, and seasonal vegetables.
Among the culinary highlights was the popular chicken dum biryani, alongside an array of festive dishes that thrilled the guests. Speaking about the menu, Neeraj noted, “I enjoy simple, hearty meals. My favorites include Gulab Jamun with ice cream and traditional dishes like churma and kheer.” His journey as an elite athlete has not deterred his love for specific indulgences.
The Couple’s Athletic Background
Himani Mor, a talented athlete in her own right, has made significant strides in the world of sports. Originally from Sonipat, Haryana, she has competed at major international events including the 2017 World University Games, winning gold at the 2016 World Junior Tennis Championship. By 2018, she achieved national rankings of 42nd in singles and 27th in doubles.
Currently, Himani holds postgraduate degrees in Political Science and Physical Education, as well as two MBAs in sports management and human resources from U.S. universities. Following her athletic endeavours, she is now a graduate assistant managing the women’s tennis team at Amherst College.
Neeraj and Himani first connected within sports circles, a mutual passion that solidified their bond. Their relationship has developed in an environment focused on dedication, perseverance, and shared goals.
Public and Media Reactions
The presence of PM Modi was hailed as a symbol of recognition for both Neeraj and Himani’s contributions to Indian sports. Following their receptions, comments from attendees and media suggested high praise for the couple’s dedication and commitment to their fields.
One attendee remarked, “It was a grand celebration that truly reflected their personalities and achievements. Both Neeraj and Himani have excelled in their respective sports, and this is just the beginning of their journey together.”
Next Steps for the Newlyweds
With the wedding receptions now concluded, Neeraj and Himani are expected to resume their professional commitments. Neeraj’s training will continue to be a priority, given the demands of the competitive javelin season. Himani is set to pursue further opportunities in sports management, suggesting a future that balances personal and professional aspirations.
As they embark on this new chapter, the couple remains a source of inspiration for young athletes across the nation, showcasing that dedication and hard work can lead to personal and professional success.