PKL Legend Deepak Hooda Trapped in Ganga Rapids, Rescued by Uttarakhand Police

Former Indian Kabaddi team captain Deepak Hooda had a terrifying experience in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, earlier today. The Arjuna Award-winning athlete went to Har Ki Paudi, a sacred ghat on the banks of the River Ganga, to take a holy dip during the auspicious month of Sawan. However, what was meant to be a peaceful spiritual moment quickly turned dangerous when he got caught in the fast-flowing currents of the river. Hooda lost his balance and was swept away by the powerful waters, unable to regain control. Fortunately, the local police rescue team, who were stationed nearby, acted swiftly and rescued him from the perilous situation before any harm could occur.

The Uttarakhand Police later confirmed the incident through a post on their official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Sharing the news with the public, they wrote: “Star Kabaddi player… and a heroic rescue by Uttarakhand Police. Arjuna Award winner and former Team India captain Deepak Hooda got stuck in the strong currents of the Ganga River. The 40th battalion of the state police, who were nearby at the time, quickly acted and safely rescued him.” The post also mentioned that Hooda personally thanked the rescue team for their prompt and courageous action, which saved him from what could have been a tragic accident.

Known for his strength, agility, and leadership on the kabaddi mat, Deepak Hooda has had an illustrious career in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). He is one of the few elite players to have scored over 1000 raid points, alongside 91 tackle points, establishing himself as one of India’s finest all-rounders in the sport. However, his career has recently been on a downward spiral. For the past couple of PKL seasons, he has remained unsold, with no team showing interest in acquiring his services. This decline in his kabaddi career comes at a time when Hooda is also dealing with serious personal and legal challenges off the mat.

Earlier this year, Hooda's name was in the headlines due to a serious family dispute. His wife, Saweety Boora, who is also a well-known athlete and former boxing world champion, accused Hooda and his family of mental and emotional harassment related to dowry demands. She claimed that she had reported the issue to the Hisar Superintendent of Police on March 11, stating clearly that she no longer wished to continue living with Hooda. “I don’t want any money—just a divorce and my personal belongings,” she said in a public statement. She further alleged that despite providing a list of her belongings to the police, no action was taken even a month later. “I request Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji and Home Minister Amit Shah Ji to help me get justice. I stayed silent for a long time, hoping things would improve peacefully,” she added, urging higher authorities to intervene.

This combination of professional setbacks and personal turmoil has made the last year extremely challenging for Deepak Hooda. Once a celebrated kabaddi star, his life has now taken unexpected turns, both in his career and personal life. The recent river incident in Haridwar only added to this troubling phase. However, his rescue from the Ganga's rapids serves as a reminder of the importance of quick emergency response and perhaps symbolizes a chance for a new beginning. Whether on or off the mat, Hooda's resilience will now be tested more than ever as he navigates this difficult chapter of his life.