Rio is unfolding to the world today. Brazil has always been a nation slightly out of sight. people in our part of world only recall it when there is a mention of football. But this time , I am sure the veracity of this big nation would be more glaring through the five circles . I woke up in the morning and enjoying the colourful ceremony . The spirit of Olympics is not only in winning medals but more in the participation and conglomeration of the entire human race . Is n't it look beautiful ? No wars, no terror attacks, no preaching of religion, no annexation of the nation for the sake of economy , no contrived thoughts....everyone just seems to be happy . People participating there are also combative, fighting, but not for the blood and territory. In the end, every one cheer for others. I wish the world remains the same not only for these 20 days but for ever.
I thought of sharing a real story of a man who is representing India in Rio. This is a true story of a indomitable spirit , in which I have also played some part. This is about a 70 year old retired Col from Indian Army ...an ex international polo player....former judge in the equestrian event at 1982 Asian Games. Add to it , his father was an ex-Olympian. The gentleman happen to live just next door to me. In the millennium city of Gurgaon, you rarely find someone who come out of their own vicinity and welcome you with broad smile. He was completely unknown to me when I moved in my house but just a few pleasantries, and I realised that this man is of different mattel. Sportsman are the real human being . They carry a lot of spirit with them and it could never be a dull moment, if you are with them. He is very old, much older to my age but I enjoy his company and his stories on sports and the personalities with whom he played. He had represented India and Indian Army in more than 180 international matches and has thousand of stories to tell. His house is full of pictures telling his illustrious past. Sometime, he feels so sad with the plight of equestrian events in the country but love for the sport has never dwindled . He has qualms that he is not able to do much. But, never misses any opportunity to watch anything happening in the NCR and voicing his opinion to the people sitting in the responsible position. Unfortunately, not many ears to listen to him and do something for the upliftment of the sport. There was a deep desire inside him to participate in the olympics.Imagine a man with 70+ age living on the pension income and still having inspiration to participate in olympics on his own. He come to know from somewhere that there is volunteer programme offered by the Rio organising committee. He shared his thoughts with me for using this as an route to go and participate in Rio. I wasn't convinced, still just feeling for his desire, offered a bit of help on how to use the Internet and social media. His journey for olympics started on this small note....don't know how many evenings we spend together in completing the stages and crossing the hurdles but his energy kept us going. Sometimes, there would be no communication from organising committee. Nevertheless, he was relentless ( a typical sportsman). Every evening he would be waiting for me to come back from office and then we would sit together to chart out our plans. Not only the on-line activities but there were many issues to handle. Where to stay, which flight to take, how to learn Portuguese, .... In between there would be lull moments with nothing happening. He would be checking his mail box every hour to see if some further information has come in or not. During these months, once he was extremely illl. He was on bed for almost a month but flame for olympics was still burning inside. I don't think anyone of us would have the perseverance to live with the passion in such circumstances , but he continued. An ex-army man's sprit was carrying him through tough times.In the process, the final stage come - the interview and I knew he will sail through. He got the confirmation. Still.....the wait was not over, the final invitation had not arrived.With a lot of suspense building around the event , he was getting anxious but never lost hope..... At times, I also use to be bit negative- why does he wants to go? But how could I have understand the sprit . To feel this, one has to be an army man, a sportsman. The ordinary people cannot feel the drive .
Finally, the d-day came, he got his invitation . His energy again was at highest level. Got his visa, hotel, flight..... And he is in arena today.... Great joy to see your pics.....he will be helping the athletes, the visitors ....guiding them for next 20 days.....
Looking forward to listen to your many many stories from the games village ..... Hats off to you and your sprit....I am sure if the Govt has some people like you - we would be coming back from olympics with lot of medals also...... #Rio2016
