Kamal Haasan Calls for Sports Culture to Strengthen India

Kamal Haasan, founder of the Makkal Needhi Maiam party, emphasized the critical role of sports in fostering a healthy and robust nation during a ceremony held by the Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) on October 3, 2023. Addressing the audience, Haasan stated that India’s potential to emerge as a world superpower hinges on its achievements in sports.

At the award distribution event, Haasan noted that sports serve as more than just a measure of athletic endurance; they symbolize a nation’s overall health and vitality. He remarked, “Sports reflect not only the strength of the individuals participating but also the happiness of our people. They can showcase the inner resilience of our nation.”

Advocating for a substantial promotion of sports, Haasan explained that engagement in sports equips individuals with vital life skills. He highlighted that both success and failure in sports are key components of personal development. “Education is essential, but health is paramount. Sports directly contribute to our health and, therefore, must be integrated into our daily lives,” he stated.

Advocacy for a National Sports Culture

Haasan underscored the necessity of collective efforts to foster a sports culture across the country. He asserted that India could only attain superpower status by excelling in various sports, which would reflect the courage and strength of its citizens. The actor-turned-politician acknowledged the efforts of the state government, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, in their initiatives to cultivate world-class athletes capable of competing at the Olympics.

Haasan also reflected on the influential figures in his life, including former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, lyricist Kannadasan, and the late actor Sivaji Ganesan, who all taught him invaluable lessons about life and culture. He emphasized that his early experiences in learning the nuances of the Tamil language were foundational for his career.

The Importance of Early Engagement in Sports

During the event, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the Minister for School Education, echoed Haasan’s sentiments, stating that health forms the foundation of a fulfilling life. He urged the importance of quality time spent in sports, especially among children, as it can open career opportunities in the future. Poyyamozhi advocated for promoting sports culture from an early age, underlining its benefits not just for individual development but for society as a whole.

In conclusion, Haasan’s call for a robust sports culture in India resonates with broader themes of national health and well-being. By prioritizing sports, the nation may not only nurture future athletes but also cultivate a healthier, more resilient society.