Shimla, Nov. 3 -- As the Indian women's cricket team lifted the World Cup after years of perseverance, celebrations erupted across the country, and the joy was clearly visible among residents of Parsa village of Shimla district, hometown of Indian pace bowler Renuka Thakur.

From early morning, the Thakur household is witnessing excitement, and there is dancing and festivity. Family members, neighbours, and villagers gathered to celebrate their daughter's contribution to India's historic victory. Sweets were distributed, devotional songs sung, and villagers prepared to welcome Renuka back home.

"This is a moment of great happiness for us. We congratulate everyone in the country -- this victory belongs to the whole of India. For us, it is...