‘We should compete against Pakistan’ India should organise bilateral athletic events with Pakistan in order to bring track and field events to the limelight again, felt Milkha Singh. The legendary sprinter said that visiting Pakistan for the Indo-Pak Meet in 1960 was a defining moment of his career Both the countries have a rich history of sporting rivalry. From the days of partition till today we have seen different sports being played with each other. Organising bilateral events will ease the tension between both the countries, he said. When Singh was asked to visit Pakistan for the meet in 1960 he was reluctant to go, as depicted in his biopic, Bhaag Mlkha Bhaag. You may know that when I was asked to take part in the meet, I was hesitant to go. I did not want to go because of the incidents that happened during the partition, said Singh. The Padamshree winner was born in Govindpura, which is currently in Pakistan after the partition in 1947. During this watershed event several people lost their lives as communal disharmony was it its height during that period. Singh, at the age of 10, saw both his parents killed in front of his eyes. I can never forget that night. That is why I did not want to go to Pakistan, said the 86-year-old. However, the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru explained the importance of the meet to maintain cordial relations with Pakistan to Singh. The speedster obliged and does not regret it one bit. Today if Milkha Singhs name as the flying Sikh is popular all over the world it is because of Pakistan and General Aayub. Speaking about the controversy surrounding Saina Nehwals appeal for the Padmashree, Singh said that no athlete should ask for awards. He also took strong objection to the way Indian boxer Sarita Devi behaved after a controversial loss at the Asian Games last year. Such incidents tarnish the image of our country. Earlier, Milkha Singh had flagged off GAIL-The Fastest Indian, a nationwide talent hunt for sprinters in Delhi. Budding runners from 19 cities across the country will be taking part in the first year of the talent hunt programme. The whole idea was to find and nurture young talent. This year we have reached 19 cities we hope to expand further in the coming years. Right now we are focusing on athletes in the under-14 age group. We have spotted some really talented athletes. We will provide them coaches who will harness their potential, said Darshan, the chief architect of the programme.
Posted on: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 08:00:01 +0000
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