Why is it that we, Indians do not play football as much as the people of western world do? We have a unique character to ape ( am I too harsh ) any thing which is coming from the west. Take for instance dresses, fashion, music or name it, we are the first to grab it and make it as part of our life.
When I started thinking over the said subject, I felt, perhaps it is our Indian culture which does not allow us to take to foot ball. I may look and appear very cynical but why should we not think in that line. There should be some reason which has not encouraged us or shall I say, influenced us to take up football as sport. I would not have given the same thought to baseball which has not been adopted by us as USA had no scope to influence us in this respect. Of course one can give several reasons why no football and one which I always hear is that there are no large grounds where they can play. A very lame excuse, I feel.
I wonder is it our ethos that prevents us from taking up this game or does not persuade us to encourage our children to take up football as a game. I feel it is the hindu culture which has imbedded in us some important traits which one cannot forget. It is always said that Hinduism is not a religion but a way of life. One is not taught what he should practice and what he should not do. One learns it as he grows up. There are no class rooms where the child is made to learn Hinduism. I am not talking about the religious hymns etc. It is true that each of the religions of the world has its own culture, with many customs, traditions and refined qualities. It is always said and that is what the ancient scriptures say that the Hindu culture is a ‘culture of love, respect, honoring others and humbling one’s own ego so that the inner nature, which is naturally pure and modest, will shine forth’ .Do not mistake me for a bigoted person. This Hindu culture has over the centuries has amalgamated with the diverse language, music, religion, dance, music etc. and transformed itself into what is called as Indian culture. This is the Indian culture which transcends everything irrespective of region, language etc.
We are always told by our elders as we grow up that Respect for elders is a keystone of Hindu culture. This genuine acknowledgment of seniority is demonstrated through endearing customs, such as not sitting while they are standing, not speaking excessively, not yawning or stretching, not putting one’s opinions forward strongly, not contradicting or arguing, seeking their advice and blessings, giving them first choice in all matters, even serving their food first. One such custom is to touch the feet of holy men and elders. We always respect the elders or guru or saints etc by touching their feet.
In India or wherever there are Indians, it is not uncommon to come across people touching the feet of holy men and women. A dancer or a musician touches the feet of his or her teacher before and after each lesson. Children prostrate and touch the feet of their mother and father at festivals and at special times, such as birthdays and before departing on a journey. . Feet of both elder men and women are touched and also as a couple also like uncle and aunt, elder brother or cousin with their respective wives
Why do they touch the feet? It is a gesture of respect in India. The gesture is a mark of respect for the people elder to them. It signifies the humbleness of the person and to seek blessings of elders The ritualistic feet touching is done in the temples or ceremonies when the feet of the priest or the scholars present there being touched. etiquette socially, culturally and spiritually.
Apart from respect to elders, it has scientific value as well. All parts of our body can be sensualised from our feet. More over, our feet got different values. They are in direct contact with the earth. They make our life to stand and so we give respect to the feet. Its not just symbolic respect but scientific values are too added in
When that is the case, can we expect such a nation which reveres and worships feet by young and old, healthy and the weak, rich and poor and saints and disciples to be used to kick around any object. Therefore I feel that we cannot expect to popularize the football game and that may be the reason why football has not kindled the imagination of youngsters too. Several attempts were made by the Government but none gave the expected result. Perhaps a thorough counselling is needed for the whole country and keep the culture separate from sports. Till that time, we may remain only as spectators and not as participants.