Dr Neeraj Kumar Sampathy does not need any introduction in carrom circles. If this game has been gaining more popularity all over, Dr Neeraj’s role cant be expressed in words. President of All India Carrom Federation, Neeraj, who is now in Vijayawada to encourage two India’s upcoming enthusiastic youngsters Husna Sameera and Allada Pawan on their marathon guinness’ record spoke at length with Greattelangaana.com.
MS:It’s great that Husna and Pawan are going to create a world record. Isn’t it?
NS:Yes indeed. I am as an Indian feel proud of their achievements so far. Of course as a president of AICF it gives me immense pleasure that these two talented Indians are going to set a new world record. I have seen their growth from when they were pretty young. Both have already become household names in carrom circles. The game has given them so much.
Husna, I remember was initiated by her father Shaik Abdul Khadar and later her uncle Jaleel, who himself was a fine carrom player helped in her improving skills. And then of course her mother Shaik Sajida Khadar’s tremendous encouragement has been the main reason in Husna reaching this level.
Pawan, is of course is a product of our Shiva Shivani school. I remember he started playing when he was in fourth class. At that time we had a full time carrom coach and he played a vital role in Pawan’s development. I am really delighted today that in sports quota Pawan got a goverment and he is now with the Central and Excise department in Bangalore. It wont be long before Husna is employed by some institutions, the way she is attracting everyone with her incredible feats.
MS;What is that quality which has impressed you particularly of these two?
NS:Well their passion for the sport and their 100 percent commitment. Husna has not played this game only for breaking records and hogging limelight, In fact she has always worked hard with her parents’ support to promote this game further. That is what has really impressed me and everyone. All know that nothing could have been possible without her parents incessant support and encouragement, And now her parents are role models to many.
Pawan too has been playing carrom with the same motto. He, I remember was a restless creature in the initial stages. Round the clock he would work hard and his parents too provided him whatever he needed. His determination has won the hearts of many. Now these two are going to be household names in carrom circles all over the world. This marathon effort of their I am sure, will earn the game a special recognition.
More importantly I ought to mention that both these enthusiastic kids have balanced their studies well. Nothing has affected their academic side. Pawan, I remember vividly would excel in studies from childhood till he persued his engineering at Vizayanagaram. So is Husna. She is an allrounder and has never let her parents down in education.
MS:Now how do you look at the game’s popularity all over the country?
NS:Well there is mixed reaction at the moment. In some states it is picking up fast and in some places, there is a bit of struggle going on. First the players should have the urge to become something. Well we need more encouragement from the Govt side. For example in Andhra Pradesh we have good support and in Telangana it is relegated to C category. But the good news is, it has been included by school federation and we have regular tournaments being conducted. That is a good sign. Well we have a few other issues to be sorted out and hope all will turn out positively for the growth of this game.
MS:Any other special effort is made by the federation as you hold an important president’s position now?
NS:We are totally committed to take this up further. We want to come out with the idea of holding variety of tournaments like we have in golf where they hold events in different groups. We have already started this new venture and the game as I mentioned is gaining popularity in all places. We have young and dynamic secretary from Chattisghad. We are leaving no stone unturned for the further growth. But we need more support from government.
In fact those who take to this sport can be secure as so many institutions such as Petroluem, LIC, RBI have been recruiting them. Very few people know that there are more than 400 carrom players who have been employed by these institutions. The players who play carrom can feel secure.
And we are also planning some regular carrom league like we have IPL and ISL. And if any sports channel like ESPN can come forward it will be great.
By Sudheer Mahavadi DD Commentator
