India Must Host Olympics to Boost Sporting Growth, Says Mahesh Bhupathi
Olympics 2036: A Game-Changer for India’s Sporting Future?
BNH NETWORK
Kolkata - The 2036 Olympics bid has sparked a nationwide debate on whether India is ready to host the world’s biggest sporting event. At the RevSportz Trailblazers 3.0 Conclave, tennis legend Mahesh Bhupathi made a strong case for India hosting the Games, calling it a “necessary catalyst for sporting growth.”
The $15 Billion Question: Is India Ready?
With an estimated cost of $15 billion, critics argue that hosting the Olympics could strain national resources. However, Bhupathi believes the long-term impact outweighs the costs.
“We must host the Olympics, be it in 2036 or 2046. It’s not just about medals but about creating a sporting ecosystem that lasts beyond a single event,” he asserted.
Cricket vs. Other Sports: A Stark Divide
The disparity between cricket and other sports remains a major concern. Bhupathi pointed out that while the BCCI efficiently distributes funds to grassroots levels, other sports lack similar support.
“The BCCI ensures money reaches U-14 levels, districts, and villages. But other sports can’t do that because they lack private financial backing,” he explained.
Tennis Prodigy and India’s Talent Pool
Bhupathi highlighted Maaya Rajeshwaran, the rising star training at Rafael Nadal’s Academy in Spain, as a prime example of India's untapped potential.
“We celebrate one Maaya, but in Spain, there are 30-40 players like her. That’s the gap we need to close,” he remarked.
Expert Opinions: Why India Needs the Olympics
Several sporting icons echoed Bhupathi’s sentiments:
Saurav Ghosal (Squash Champion): “Hosting the Olympics would create a much-needed sporting culture in India.”
Pullela Gopichand (Badminton Coach): “We failed to build on the 2010 Commonwealth Games success. We must not repeat that mistake.”
Adille Sumariwalla (VP, World Athletics): “India should focus on sports with multiple medal opportunities to maximize success.”
Building a Sports-Driven Future
The consensus among experts is clear: India’s Olympic dream must go beyond hosting the Games and focus on infrastructure, grassroots development, and long-term investments in multiple sports.
The session, titled “Are We Olympic Ready?”, was moderated by Prantik Mazumdar and Gargi Raut and concluded with a unanimous belief that India’s time to step onto the Olympic stage is fast approaching.
