From ‘Captain Cool’ to head coach, Anup Kumar has attained glorious heights in the sports of kabaddi. We talk to him about his greatest achievements and his life after retirement.
You are one of the most accomplished players in kabaddi, how did you end up in such an offbeat and unconventional sport?
As a child, I enjoyed playing kabaddi during my spare time in my school days. I used to play for the school level and inter-village competitions in my village, Palra. It was a popular sport in my village, and I picked it up from there. I started out in my school days but began taking the sport seriously at the age of 17. When I look back, kabaddi is definitely a part of my identity now and I owe a lot to the sport.
Famously known as the ‘Bonus ka Badshah’, you have innumerable victory stories attached to your name. Is there a distinct memory that you will never forget?
Kabaddi has given me everything I could have ever wished for. More than the accolades and accomplishments, what matters to me is the respect, support, and admiration of all the people. But, if I have to mention a distinct moment, it has to be winning the Arjuna Award. It was a very special moment for me to be bestowed with this honour by the President of India. My mother had accompanied me to the Rashtrapati Bhavan for the ceremony. This is the highest honour for any sportsman and being recognised for my contribution to the sport is very special. After receiving the award, when I went back, I will never forget the grand welcome I received from the people in my village. There was a huge procession with at least 15,000 - 20,000 people. I cannot put into words the kind of happiness you feel when you experience the love of so many people. It was definitely one of the most beautiful memories of my life which I will cherish forever.
If we talk about success, we cannot miss out on the failures. So, what challenges did you come across while playing the sport?
Esta historia es de la edición August 2019 de FHM Fit.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición August 2019 de FHM Fit.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Unleash Your Power Of Playing
Play The Games Of Your Choice! Give Sports Its Due Spot In Your Catalogue. So, Wake Up And Get Ready To Read Some Amazing Information About Games Especially Recommended For You
Your Natural Hair Care Routine
Hair Care is Important but Using Hair Products is Not, Bloom Your Hair Naturally This Month for The Long-Term Benefits!
Five Keys To Strengthen Your Posture
Want To Look Attractive And Elegant Through Your Posture? Look No Further- As We’ve Rounded Up A List Of Simple And Effective Exercises To Maintain Your Posture. And, You Can Do These In Just A Few Minutes Each Day
Revisiting THE ICONICS
If You Too Just Ride On The Days That End With \"Y,\" We Can Make Good Friends, Go Riding And Enjoy The Freedom. But For Now; A Trip Down Memory Lane!
Clear Skies And COUNTRY DELIGHTS
The Slight Autumn Chill in Portugal Makes October the Best Time to Visit the Country. Mild Weather and Lack of Tourists Makes for the Perfect Combination for Vacations, so Check Out Our Suggestion for the Month
Portugu ANGUAGE OF LUXURY
If You Are Planning To Travel To The Southwestern European Country; Portugal, Then You Are At The Right Place!
Irresistible Goddess TOSSING SULTRY
The Queen Of Looks That Make You Stop And Stare. Here is Our FHM Cover Star For This Month, Kyra Marie, Who Is The Perfect Personification Of Enchantress And Steaminess
High Rollers Flock to BACCARAT TABLES!
Experience The Thrill Of The High Rollers With Our Captivating Baccarat Games
LOVE BACHATA!
The Best Way To Impress Your Girl Is To Learn Bachata With Her And Hit The Dance Floor. Bachata Is A Soulful And Sensual Dance That Can Bring Passion To Your Love Life
Enchanting ALL SENSES
Looking Adorable In Her Rocking, Bold And Hardy Curves, She Can Make Everyone's Eyes And Hearts Pop Out! She Undoubtedly Makes Our Cover Look Sensual