Roopnagar: There is a saying, ‘Old is Gold’, and that seems to motivate Punjab’s masses these days, as they turn up in large number to witness 2nd Kabaddi World Cup at various cities of Punjab.
At Nehru Stadium, Ropar, people turned up in huge numbers and the scenario was the same as that of the World Cup cricket match between Pakistan and India at Mohali. The stadium was full to capacity to cheer the teams of the desi game and watch their favourite raiders holding their opponents.
“As I do not want to miss even a single moment of the US and Pakistan players, I came early to book my seat, said Harsimran, who owns a grocery shop in town. “After the US defeated last year’s runners- up, they became my favourites. I asked my brother to attend practice session at a nearby village. I want him to play this game and become strong like these players.”
The craze was such that the spectators thronged into the stadium three hours before the first match. They were finding it hard to get seats in the general block while the VIP block also witnessed many tussles for seats.
“It is for the first time that kids are watching kabaddi match live here,” said Gurkirat Singh, a teacher in a Government school here.
According to local residents, for the first time they have seen the stadium jam packed. “The stadium was not that live before this day,” says Kuldeep Singh, General-Secretary of the District Kabaddi Association. “Kabaddi matches do take place in the nearby areas of Chamkur Sahib but it is for the first time that it is being organised here. I hope the tournament will boost the confidence of the youngsters and they will also opt for this sport to shine.”
“The response of the public says it all,” says Pargat Singh, Director Sports, Punjab. “This is the best way to promote the game among youngsters and it also takes the others back to their childhood.”
The Tribune