Why Sports?

Gone are the days when a bunch of folks used to play some game to kill time. Sports have become a serious business and are one of the parameters to measure the progress of a nation. Very often, the gold medal tally reflects the economic prosperity of the nation.

If ever there had to be an example of what sports can do to a nation, the just concluded Ashes series is one of the finest examples. You think of Brazil, you invariably think of football. Just as cricket and India are inseparable, so is Brazil and Soccer, US and Basketball.

Have a look at the celebration that ensued after the ashes victory and you understand the significance of sport. I yearn for such kind of a celebration. A celebration of which each one of the citizens feels a part of. It’s no more a question of yours and mine, but ours. Therein lies the magic of sport. Its one essential thread that binds the nation together.

I dream of the day when maybe 50/60 years down the line, my country lifts the football world cup. And I wish it just doesn’t remain a dream. I know it’s a tough ask but if we are really serious about it, the foundation has to be laid now.

For any sport to be successful, it has to have an appeal and its stars. Stars who give out their all and compel the spectators to visit the stadiums and cheer them on. Like Tendulkar for Indian cricket, Flintoff for English cricket, sania for Indian tennis, agassi for US tennis and many more...

What these icons have managed to do is kindle the dream process in the budding champs. Baichung Bhutia was once asked how does he think he will be remembered. He answered that maybe there will be others after him, who will become mega stars and earn fortunes but he will always be remembered as the one who could make Indians dream of a football career. And that will remain his legacy

What our country needs is more of such stars to kickstart a revolution. In tennis, it has already begun, thanks to Sania. And whether she makes it big or not may not be as important as what she has already done to the mindset of the tennis enthusiasts. She is one of the main reasons behind what seems to be the first ever commercially viable tennis tournament – Sunfeast Open 2005.

I very much want to be a part of such events. Just got to be a bit more patient. I know my time is coming. :)

And if we can manage to create promote such events in other disciplines too. I am certain that we will be able to unearth champs in other sports besides cricket and tennis. Keep watching this space!

PS: For some reason, i am not able to upload pics of the ashes victory celebration.