Year Ender 2024: Vinesh Phogat tops Google Searches; Discover complete list of India's most searched personalities!

Year Ender 2024: In a remarkable turn of events, wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat emerged as the most-searched personality on Google in India, as revealed in the search engine's 'Year In Search 2024' report. This accolade highlights her significant impact on both sports and politics, resonating deeply with the Indian public.

Leading the Charge Against Injustice: Phogat's Activism and Political Journey

Vinesh Phogat, alongside fellow Olympians Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, played a pivotal role in last year's protests against Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, the former head of the Wrestling Federation of India and a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Their agitation was fueled by allegations of sexual harassment against Singh, marking a significant moment in the fight for justice within Indian sports. Phogat's activism not only showcased her commitment to women's rights but also set the stage for her political aspirations.

In a dramatic turn at the Paris Olympics this year, Phogat qualified for the final but faced disqualification due to being overweight just before her bout. The Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected her appeal, leaving her devastated but determined. Upon returning to India, she made headlines by joining the Congress party ahead of the elections in her home state of Haryana. Despite her party's overall loss to the BJP, she secured victory in the Julana constituency, marking a significant milestone in her political career.

The Political Landscape: Key Figures and Shifting Alliances

Following Phogat in search popularity was Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who rejoined the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) earlier this year. Kumar's party, Janata Dal (United), holds 12 seats and is a vital ally for the BJP, which recently lost its majority in Lok Sabha for the first time since 2014. Known for his political acumen, Kumar has been a significant player in Bihar politics and his return to the NDA signals strategic maneuvering as parties prepare for upcoming elections.Chirag Paswan, head of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and another BJP ally, ranked third.

Once an actor with a promising career in films, Paswan transitioned into politics and now serves as a minister in the central government led by the BJP. His ability to connect with youth through his cinematic background has helped him gain traction within his party and among voters.Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya captured fourth place after facing backlash during the Indian Premier League for taking over captaincy from Rohit Sharma. Despite being booed by fans during matches, Pandya redeemed himself by bowling the final over in India's World T20 victory against South Africa.

His dynamic playing style and charismatic personality have made him one of cricket's most talked-about figures.Completing the top five was "Power Star" Pawan Kalyan, leader of the Janasena Party and deputy chief minister in Andhra Pradesh's NDA government. Kalyan is not only a prominent politician but also a beloved film star whose popularity transcends politics. His dual identity as an actor and politician allows him to engage with a diverse audience and advocate for various social issues.

Emerging Personalities: The Rest of the Top TenThe search results also highlighted several other notable figures:

• Shashank Singh (Cricketer): A rising star in Indian cricket, Singh has garnered attention for his impressive performances on the field. His contributions to various domestic leagues have made him a player to watch as he aims to secure a spot on the national team.
• Poonam Pandey (Model): Known for her bold persona and social media presence, Pandey has made headlines both for her modeling career and her ventures into entertainment. Her ability to stay relevant in popular culture keeps her firmly in the public eye.
• Radhika Merchant (Business Leader): As a prominent figure in India's business landscape, Merchant has made significant strides in her career. Her leadership skills and innovative approaches have earned her recognition as one of India's influential young business leaders.
• Abhishek Sharma (Cricketer): Another talented cricketer making waves in domestic cricket, Sharma is known for his all-round capabilities. His performances have caught selectors' attention as he aims to establish himself at higher levels of competition.
• Lakshya Sen (Badminton Player): A young badminton prodigy, Sen has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of India's top players. His dedication to the sport and recent successes have inspired many young athletes across the country.

Vinesh Phogat's journey from a wrestling mat to political arenas symbolizes not just personal triumph but also a broader movement advocating for women's rights and justice within sports. As she continues to navigate her new role as a politician, she remains committed to fighting for those who have been marginalized and silenced