When Indian cinema meets Olympics

This year Olympics will be organized in Rio. With all support, and positive vibes in media, social networks Indians are wishing, and aiming for a tally of 10 than 6 of last Olympics. Media flooded with greetings on qualifying of Dipa Karamakar in Gymnasts for Rio-16. A true moment of happiness, whence hard work, sweat and blood meet a coveted spot for a sports person. She is the first Indian woman to enter in gymnasts. A moment of pride for the nation, indeed. Warm wishes from the legendary God of Cricket - Sachin Tendulkar were relayed. Moments like these throw a tide of inspiration of many other athletes, and people whom nation doesn't know, and hear of. Boosts morale for sports persons to continue to persevere, and sweat out with one goal irrespective of the failures, and hurdles. 

Running out of romantic, Hollywood, and South Indian movie scripts Indian cinema has of late shedded light on sports through biopics on Milkha Singh, Paan Singh Tomar, Mary Kom among few others. In a duration of 2-3 hours a film targets to entertain, deliver few punch lines, songs, show steel willed athlete, relentless coach, and it ends. It may cover most of the parts, but it cannot cast a net on all events. Therefore, there is a hard line between a real and reel life. An actor, or actress may meet former players, undergo rigorous, strenuous regime, nonetheless, will remain far away from having those experienced first handedly, and reality.  

Field athleticism, and Indian Cinema are far ends, yet India Olympics Association (IOA) had accomplished the inconceivable - appointed Salman Khan as good will ambassador for Rio-16. It garnered a lot of foul cry from former olympics players, athletes, social media, though few supported this step. It mired the super star in yet another controversy, ironically. 

It is undeniably true about the reach, and fandom he has. A cult and mass following, a trend setter, people eagerly wait for his Eid movies, needless to mention, are waiting of his wrestling based movie Sultan this year. Yet these cannot be a rationales behind crowning him of a prestigious position - to represent nation. He has never brought glory, and honor to country. If you've ever followed his interview(s), his sole goal is to entertain. To send a message he shall tweet, so has he said. He is focussed on his charity work, and fund raising through ventures like Being Human, and others in movie industry. 

Amidst all noise and criticism IOA later approached Sachin Tendulkar, and others for position. Here, it is necessary to understand a key message which is important to be delivered to thousands out there - regularly practicing, never giving up, and hard working athletes, which cannot be passed down, understood by none other an athlete - of arduous will, zeal, and hard work. Positions such as this are to be held by people which are a testament of single-mindedness, tireless and numerous efforts, sacrifices, hardships by athletes, and no others that one must never let go of his, her dream, and follow heart should one has the courage to do so. 

IOA is responsible for promoting sports, increase participation, encourage sports organization for more players, and excellent sportsmanship, and not otherwise. If IOA is to rope in celebrities than former olympics players, and athletes for this job, then, it is hard to believe IOA has understood its role, and followed guidelines strictly.    

May these outlandish steps of IOA not hamper our athletes. Heartiest, and best wishes to all the participants representing India. May the force be with you!