A victorious Captain Amarinder Singh on late Saturday came home to a grand welcome from his family members and constituents in Patiala, from where he has created military history by becoming the first Captain to defeat a General.

As he stepped into Patiala, Capt was greeted by a cacophony of drums beats and slogans by enthusiastic crowds that had lined up to welcome the ‘hero’ of the state Assembly polls.

“It was an emotional homecoming for me. I am overwhelmed by the love and support of the Patialvis,” he said.

Flanked by his wife Preneet Kaur, daughter Jai Inder Kaur, brothers Raja Malwinder Singh and Raja Randhir Singh, Captain visited the gurdwara and temple at Burj Baba Ala Singh at the historic Qila Mubarak, from where he had started his poll campaign earlier. He then left for his Moti Mahal palace, which was thronged by huge crowds waiting to celebrate his 75th birthday and his landmark victory in the Assembly polls.

The palace had been decked up for the double celebration, which Captain Amarinder described as the most memorable event in his life. At 75, the scion of the Patiala royalty has become the longest living member of his family. Jubilant party workers and supporters could be seen celebrating with sweets and revelry all around the palace, which seemed to stand out as an illuminated landmark on Patiala’s cityscape.

The whole atmosphere was one of an unending party, with smiling faces, blooming flowers and garlands greeting Captain Amarinder at every corner.