Celebrating Sports Literature: The Ninth Edition of the PlayWrite Festival in Chandigarh
The PlayWrite sports literature festival, now in its ninth edition, unfolded at The Lalit in Chandigarh, inviting an array of athletes, authors, journalists, and sports aficionados to partake in a day that brimmed with engaging discussions and inspiring narratives.
An Inspiring Keynote from Kiran Kanojia
Kicking off the festival was a powerful keynote address by Kiran Kanojia, India’s first woman “Blade Runner.” Her remarkable journey, marked by resilience and strength, began after a train accident in 2011 left her without a limb while bravely confronting bag snatchers in Hyderabad. Kanojia, who drew inspiration from her father’s unconditional support, emphasized the transformative power of sport. “Sport builds character,” she expressed, believing that challenges can be met head-on. Her mantra, “Log problems se bhagte hain, aur main problems mein bhagti hoon” (People run away from problems, but I run towards them), resonated deeply with everyone present, setting an inspiring tone for the festival.
Ice Hockey: A Growing Passion in India
The festival also offered a fascinating session on ice hockey, delving into its rising popularity in India despite the daunting challenges of limited training facilities, particularly in the Himalayan region. Esteemed speakers, including Harjinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Bakshi, and Indian women’s captain Disket Changmo, highlighted the sport’s untapped potential and the crucial need for enhanced support and infrastructure. Their discussions brought to light not only the sport’s future but also the importance of nurturing talent at grassroots levels to foster a thriving ice hockey culture in the country.
Voices of Young International Sportswomen
Adding to the diversity of discussions, young international sportswomen Ganemat Sekhon, Raiza Dhillon, and Bhavani Thekkada shared their unique journeys, shedding light on their challenges and triumphs in the world of sports. Their experiences, rich with insights on dedication and determination, offered a dynamic perspective on what it means to be an athlete in today’s competitive landscape.
The Evolution of Sports Journalism
In a thought-provoking panel, senior journalists Neeru Bhatia and Mona discussed the evolving landscape of sports journalism, particularly as it relates to women. They examined the increasing visibility of women in sports and how journalism has played a pivotal role in shaping narratives around female athletes. Their reflections sparked engaging conversations on the responsibilities of media professionals in highlighting achievements and tackling issues pertaining to gender equality in sports coverage.
Grassroots Development and the Future of Indian Hockey
Alongside discussions of journalism, the festival illuminated the evolving nature of grassroots sports in India. Sessions showcased the initiatives aimed at developing tennis and hockey from the ground up, emphasizing that cultivating talent at a young age is essential for the future. Attendees explored the rich history of Indian hockey and celebrated the momentum of women’s cricket, marking it as a significant chapter in the broader narrative of Indian sports.
This year’s PlayWrite festival not only celebrated the love for sports literature but also served as a powerful platform for sharing stories of resilience, growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in athletics across various disciplines.