New Delhi, What can be a bigger irony when one gets to know that Asian Games bronze medalist sells tea for a living. The whole country may be basking in the glory of Asiad Games glory where the Indian players have done exceptionally good.
But here is a story that will shock you. Harish Kumar, member of the Indian Sepak Takraw team that won a bronze medal at the Asian Games 2018, sells tea at his father’s shop to support his family.
Speaking to reporters at his small tea shop, Harish Kumar said, “I have many family members and there is a very meagre source of income. I help my father at the tea shop to support my family. I dedicate four hours every day between 2 to 6 for my practice. For my future, I want to get a good job to support my family”.
Talking about his struggles and initial association with the Sepak Takraw game, he said, “I started playing this sport from 2011. My coach Hemraj brought me into this sport. We also used to play with a tyre when my coach Hemraj spotted me and introduced me to the Sports Authority of India (SAI). Thereafter I started receiving monthly funds and kits. I practice every day and will keep on doing it to bring more laurels for my country”.
Harish’s mother, Indira Devi also talked about adversities under which she supported her son to pursue the game.She said, “I have brought up my kids with a lot of struggle. His father is an auto-driver and we have a small tea shop. My son also works at tea shop to assist his father. I am very thankful to the government for providing food and accommodation to my son. I am very thankful to his coach Hemraj who has supported my kid to achieve this accomplishment.”
