Chitrashi Rawat Falls in Love with Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Actress Chitrashi Rawat, best known for her iconic role as Komal Chautala in the 2007 blockbuster Chak De! India, recently described Odisha as “a true home for Indian Hockey” during her visit to the state.

Sharing her experience on social media, Rawat posted images from her trip and reflected on the emotional connection she felt as a former hockey player. “As a former hockey player, it felt special to be in a place that lives and breathes the game,” she wrote. “Coming to Odisha felt like coming full circle. Clean cities, kind people, temple runs that felt spiritual, and food that honestly blew me away. Until next time. Have you guys been to Odisha?”

Rawat, who began playing hockey at the age of 17 and played as a left striker, was selected for Chak De! India after auditioning in Jabalpur. The film became a global sensation, propelling her into the spotlight.

Following the success of Chak De! India, she went on to star in Fashion (2008), which was both a commercial hit and critically acclaimed. In 2009, she played a lead role in the action film Luck, alongside an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Imran Khan, Shruti Haasan, Mithun Chakraborty, and Ravi Kishan.

Her recent visit to Odisha further highlights the state’s growing reputation as a hub for Indian hockey, bolstered by its world-class infrastructure and unwavering support for the sport.