Competition, performance and medals are on the mind of every Olympics-bound athlete. In addition, in a small, yet significant corner of many Indian athletes’ mind, heart and suitcases there is superstition, a belief which they feel adds an extra edge to their competitive spirit.
For many the superstition is tangible and for a few their faith is an emotional call of love and affection from their dear ones.
Indian hockey’s star striker S.V. Sunil’s baggage is a tad heavier than that of his teammates, thanks to his ‘lucky’ charms.
Throwing light on the must haves in his bag, the 24-year-old from Kodagu said, “I carry nine Ganesha idols in my stick bag and also have three Shirdi Sai Baba statues. Before I go onto the field I always tuck a Ganesha idol in my pocket.”
Revealing his pre-match ritual Sunil who will have his own little worship corner in his room at the Games Village said, “Before a match I keep my stick and jersey in front of an idol and do puja for it.”
Sunil’s teammate V.R. Raghunath said, “I’m an ardent believer of Goddess Bhadra Kali.
“There is a temple in my hometown in Gonikoppa where my family prays on my behalf before tournaments. At the Olympics I will have Kali as the wallpaper on my mobile because I feel that infuses some strength in me.”
For five-time world champion and India’s medal prospect in women’s boxing M.C Mary Kom it’s a mix of emotion and religion which will keep her going.
“I always carry a picture of Jesus and a Bible in my bag. I also keep the photograph on my two children in a pouch which I carry to the ring,” said Mary Kom, mother of twins Rengpa and Nainai.
Indian’s double’s specialist Rohan Bopanna’s loyalty lies with a compass gifted by a fan more than a decade ago.
“A young child in Indore gave me a good luck card with a compass as a gift saying it will bring you good luck in all your travels. I was 17 when he gave it. I still travel with it,” said the strapping 31-year-old.
India’s discus throw hopeful Krishna Poonia carries the photograph of her 11-year-old son Lakshya as way of a lucky charm.
Helping India hockey skipper Bharat Chetri keep guard in goal are his parent’s blessings.
Some may call it blind faith, others a superstition, but for our sporting stars their beliefs are a value add to their sporting power.