Delhi's toxic air has left some of the women boxers, gathered in the city for the AIBA World Championship, gasping for breath but Indian people's renowned hospitality is providing some comfort. "We don't feel good. Air here is the worst air from (sic) (compared to) everywhere. We had little problem with breathing. It's hard to train here (in this air quality)," Bulgaria's 2014 World Champion in 57 kg, Stanimira Petrova told reporters during an interaction.

European championship bronze medallist Azize Nimani also echoed Petrova's sentiments. "This is my first visit to India. I think in my honest opinion, it could be a little bit more cleaner but people are very, very nice," Azize, who is best known for her 2016 win against MC Mary Kom in the 51 kg Olympic Qualifiers, said. Paddy burning in parts of Punjab and Haryana has severely affected the air quality in Delhi and NCR region. Apex court's directive did not deter people from bursting crackers on the Diwali day, further worsening the situation.