Hockey Stars Struggle for Recognition Amidst Cricket Obsession
India’s sporting landscape remains dominated by cricket, leaving athletes from other disciplines struggling for recognition. Despite the recent rise of sports like hockey, badminton, and athletics, non-cricketing sportspersons continue to face obscurity, with only a few exceptions.
Hockey midfielder Hardik Singh recently shared a disheartening incident that highlights the current state of affairs. At an airport, he and his teammates witnessed fans flocking to social media personality Dolly Chaiwala for selfies, while failing to recognize the hockey stars.
“I saw it with my own eyes,” said Hardik. “People were getting themselves clicked with him and did not recognize us. We started looking at each other (feeling awkward).”
This incident underscores the stark contrast between the fame enjoyed by cricketers and the relative anonymity of other athletes. Despite winning back-to-back Olympic bronze medals and the recent Asian Champions Trophy gold, India’s hockey team continues to struggle for recognition.
“For an athlete, fame and money is one thing,” said Hardik. “But when people are watching you and appreciating you, there is no bigger satisfaction than that.”
The lack of recognition for non-cricketing sportspersons has a detrimental impact on their motivation and morale. It also hinders the development of these sports in India, as young athletes may be discouraged from pursuing them due to the limited opportunities for fame and financial success.
To address this issue, it is crucial to promote and celebrate the achievements of athletes from all sports. Media coverage, government support, and public awareness campaigns can play a vital role in raising the profile of non-cricketing sports and inspiring future generations of athletes.
