Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently shared fond memories of his visit to Shahdol district in Madhya Pradesh during an extensive conversation with American podcaster Lex Fridman. He highlighted the unique football culture of the tribal-dominated village of Vicharpur in Shahdol, where residents have an unwavering passion for the sport, earning the village the nickname ‘Mini Brazil in the podcast.’
Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the vibrant sports culture in Shahdol, explaining that the district is part of central India’s large tribal bel during the discussion. He acknowledged the significant role played by tribal women in running self-help groups and expressed his admiration for their efforts. He recalled visiting Shahdol, where he met with members of these self-help groups and the key players behind the region’s football revolution, encouraging them to continue their pursuit of excellence in the sport.
Sharing a memorable experience, the Prime Minister recounted how he saw around 80 to 100 young football enthusiasts, all dressed in sports attire, sitting in an orderly manner. When he inquired about their origin, they proudly responded, “We are from Mini Brazil.” Curious about the name, he asked them to elaborate. The players explained that football has been played in their village for four generations, with over 80 national-level players emerging from their community. The sport is so deeply ingrained in their culture that local matches attract nearly 20,000 to 25,000 spectators from neighbouring villages. Recognizing this passion, Prime Minister Modi described Shahdol’s ‘Mini Brazil’ as a promising sign of the growing football craze in India, emphasizing its role in fostering team spirit.
Chief Minister expresses gratitude
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his encouragement, stating that his recognition would boost the morale of players not only in Shahdol but across the entire state. He reaffirmed the Madhya Pradesh government’s commitment to supporting football and other sports, ensuring all possible assistance to nurture budding talent. The Chief Minister highlighted that the state’s sports academies have produced players who have brought national and international recognition to Madhya Pradesh and India.
Efforts to promote football in Shahdol
Former Commissioner of Shahdol Division, Rajeev Sharma, also played a crucial role in promoting football in the region. Under his initiative, efforts were made to provide better facilities for players, yielding promising results. Football clubs have been established in Vicharpur and various other villages in Shahdol, encouraging local talent and strengthening the football culture in the division.
Mention in ‘Mann Ki Baat’
This is not the first time that Prime Minister Modi has acknowledged Shahdol’s football enthusiasm. In a previous edition of his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program, he had also spoken about the football revolution in Shahdol, further inspiring young players in the region.
With continuous support from the government and passionate players driving the football movement, Shahdol’s ‘Mini Brazil’ is set to make a lasting impact on India’s sporting landscape.
