NEW DELHI: A lighthearted moment unfolded as Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with India’s Commonwealth Games medallists on Sunday, stemming from a Pakistani boxer’s amusing aversion to the name ‘Narendra’.
Boxer Narender Berwal recounted his experience at the 2015 World Military Games, where he had defeated a Pakistani opponent. Berwal recalled the Pakistani boxer’s reaction: “Brother, your name is Narender, your coach’s name is Narender, your Prime Minister’s name is Narender. I have started hating the name Narender.” This anecdote drew laughter from both Modi and the athletes present.
During the interaction, Modi particularly commended Lovlina Borgohain, the silver medallist in the women’s 75kg boxing event, for her vigilance regarding a map issue. She noticed that a map of India at a restaurant in Glasgow did not accurately depict the North-East region. Lovlina explained that she brought the error to the attention of the restaurant staff, who subsequently agreed to rectify it. Modi emphasized the significance of her actions, noting that her attention to detail even amidst celebrations made the gesture memorable.
Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, who secured a gold medal in the women’s 48kg category, shared an emotional moment. Modi inquired about the tears she shed on the podium after her victory. Chanu explained that the medal was the culmination of four challenging years, marked by injuries, family difficulties, and the disappointment of narrowly missing a medal at the Paris Olympics by just one kilogram. She emotionally stated, “When our flag goes up and our national anthem plays, we cannot stop ourselves,” clarifying the reason for her emotional display.
Modi conveyed to the medallists that their achievements held immense power to inspire children towards sports. He remarked that their medals would motivate aspiring athletes far more effectively than any promotional campaigns. “Your medal inspires them more than anything we could say by going to schools,” he concluded.
