As the football World Cup kicked-off in Brazil, there was palpable excitement in Bangalore. India’s absence at the quadrennial event has not stopped football fanatics from expressing themselves. Giant hoardings, jerseys, statues, and live streaming of matches on big screens have set the mood. A rally from Gautampura - known as the Mini Brazil for its fervent passion and love for the sport - through M.G. Road and Ashok Nagar kicked off the festivities.
Shantinagar MLA N.A. Haris, who is also a patron of the Karnataka State Football Association (KSFA), sported a jersey to show his love for the game. “Brazil is my favourite team, and they will win the World Cup for the sixth time,” he quips.
The KSFA also released limited edition stamps recently to commemorate the inauguration of the World Cup. Speaking at the release function, M.S. Ramanujan, Chief Post Master General of the Karnataka Circle said India Post will celebrate FIFA Football Carnival for a month. He joked that the city will suffer from sleeping disorder for a month.
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An acknowledgment from Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a clear indication of the sport's vast appeal. Speaking at a function in New Delhi, he stated: “Football is gaining space in the country.”
The President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Praful Patel, who was present at the function, said football is played in nearly all countries across the world. “The popularity of football knows no bounds,” he said
There is more exciting news for football fans - it is almost certain that Bangalore will host a friendly between India and Pakistan in August. The fixture awaits the official confirmation from the AIFF, but officials are hopeful of pulling off the momentous occasion.
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The keen interest in the World Cup augurs well for the future of football in the city and the country.