Shraddha C. Sankulkar
Once recognized as the British Empire Games, the Commonwealth Games are being currently held in Birmingham, England. Being a sports fan, I feel nice to track the happenings of an ongoing international multi-sporting event like the Olympics, Asian Games or Commonwealth Games. Its like witnessing a carnival that showcases the actions of a variety of games. As I read about the inauguration of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) today it made me nostalgic of my visit to England in 2012. Exactly a decade back, it was the year of the London Olympics.
Having witnessed the Olympic mood of England & Wales, I can imagine the vibe & fragrance that the Commonwealth Games’ 2022, must have brought to the Birmingham air! The most prominent memory that I have of Birmingham is of the water canals and the pathways that run beside the canals.
As one walks down the serene and peaceful paths, I notice that it has the potential to bring out the best from within an artist like me. The company of my host in Birmingham, Dr. Juhi Sharma & her kids were an absolute delight to hang out with as I toured the city with them.
I noticed that a lot of Asian origin population resides in Birmingham, particularly Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis. The food outlets and the stores at most streets in Birmingham reflected the presence of Asian culture being around.
The following day I had to reach Cardiff, Wales to watch an Olympic event of women’s hockey match that was suppose to be played between South Africa & Japan. I was very excited that it was my very first experience at an Olympic event.
When I reached the hockey stadium venue at Cardiff the entire vicinity was buzzing with hockey fans who either were supporting South Africa or Japan. Few of them had worn traditional attires that represented the two countries respectively. The police too were enjoying the vibe and mingling with the crowd.
Though I practically cannot visit U.K for the CWG’2022, but I am looking forward to track the games via Television and internet portals. As the world is limping from the trauma of COVID situation, I am sure the Commonwealth Games, which Birmingham is hosting, will reboot the spirit of the spectators and the participants too.
I believe, by witnessing such events (Live or Digitally) one connects to a phenomenon that’s larger than one’s self that builds a sense of community. Such social events distract the self and helps us temporarily dissociate from the vagaries of life and feel rejuvenated to continue with life with a positive spirit!
Photo Courtesy: Shraddha C. Sankulkar
