From Rohtak to Rio: Sakshi Malik makes India proud at the Olympics

Finally! A whole nation breathed a sigh of relief late on Wednesday, August 17, as Haryana's Sakshi Malik helped India secure its first medal at the Rio Olympics 2016.

In a thrilling contest, the 23-year-old fought back from 0-5 down to defeat Aisuluu Tynybekova of Kyrgyzstan 8-5 and clinch the bronze medal in 58kg category of women's freestyle wrestling.

The medal triggered late-night celebrations across India, and Malik's hometown Rohtak was in a festive mood with dance, music, fireworks and emotions running high through the night.

Malik created history by becoming the first woman wrestler from India to bag an Olympic medal. She has now joined the likes of Mary Kom, Karman Malleswari and Saina Nehwal to be part of the list of women who have earlier brought glory to India at the Games.

From Rohtak to Rio, the story of Sakshi Malik is one of grit, determination and willpower.

Hailing from Mokhra village in the Rohtak district of Haryana, Sakshi began training at the age of 12 under the guidance of coach Ishwar Dahiya. Early in her career, she had to fight a lot of boys as the sport was considered "not for girls".

In fact, Dahiya faced opposition from locals when he took Sakshi under his wing.

As a professional wrestler, Malik first tasted success in the international arena in 2010 when she won the bronze medal at the Junior World Championships in the 58kg freestyle event. Then in 2014, she further gained global recognition by winning the gold medal at the Dave Schultz International Wrestling Tournament (60kg).

Here's how people from across the country celebrated the victory on Twitter: