Sourav Kothari Wins Fourth National Billiards Title After Father’s Passing

Sourav Kothari has claimed his fourth national billiards title in a deeply emotional victory, which comes just days after the passing of his father, Manoj Kothari, a former world billiards champion. The loss on January 5, 2023, has profoundly impacted Sourav, who described the relationship with his father as one that transcended the typical father-son bond.

Despite the overwhelming grief, Sourav participated in the tournament, a decision he credits to the encouragement of family, friends, and officials from the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI). He initially hesitated to enter the competition, stating, “I didn’t even send my entry for this event.” However, after being urged to compete, he arrived on the day of the tournament, with organizers adjusting the schedule to accommodate his late entry.

A Journey Through Grief

During the tournament, Sourav experienced a mix of emotions. He reached the quarterfinals in snooker, ultimately securing the billiards title. Reflecting on the victory, he remarked, “I never expected this title given the mental state that I was in.” He noted a feeling of loneliness throughout the event, particularly missing the post-match conversations he shared with his father.

“Of course I talked to my mother, but I missed those post-match calls with baba, which I used to do after every game. This time I sat alone in my room,” Sourav said. Despite this solitude, he felt his father’s spirit guiding him on the table. “I genuinely felt baba was standing right next to my table as without him, I couldn’t have hit three back-to-back 140-point breaks in the final,” he added, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.

A Tribute to a Legacy

Sourav’s emotional journey culminated in a poignant moment at the prize distribution ceremony. The organizers honored Manoj by displaying his pictures on the back screen as Sourav lifted the trophy. This tribute resonated deeply with him, as he felt his father’s presence in that moment of triumph. “I felt like baba was looking at me as I lifted the trophy. This one is for you, baba,” he concluded.

This victory not only marks a significant achievement in Sourav’s career but also serves as a testament to the enduring bond between a father and son, illustrating how love and memory can inspire even in the face of profound loss.