Cricket with a Cultural Twist: Players Don Dhoti-Kurta, Commentary in Sanskrit in Bhopal

Bhopal: These days a different form of cricket is being seen in the Ankur Sports Ground of Bhopal, which is not usually seen on the grounds. Here players were seen playing wearing dhoti-kurta instead of modern jerseys and wearing tilak and tripund on their foreheads. This event is being organized under Maharishi Maitri Match Series-6, the objective of which is to promote Indian culture and the Sanskrit language through sports. 27 teams from different states of the country are participating in this competition, which will run till January 9.

Why is this tournament different from other cricket events?

In this competition, not only is the attire of the players different, but the atmosphere of the entire event has also been kept traditional. Players play with religious-cultural symbols while entering the field, due to which the form of cricket appears to have completely changed.

In which language is the commentary being done on the field?

The most special thing about this tournament is its commentary. Here the entire commentary is being done in the Sanskrit language, not Hindi or English. For the first time, the audience is getting the experience of listening to cricket in Devvani Sanskrit.

How was cricket terminology changed into Sanskrit?

The organizers have prepared the Sanskrit form of every cricket word. The pitch is being called 'Kshipya,' the ball is being called 'Kandukam,' the bat is being called 'Vallakah,' and the run is being called 'Dhaavanam.' The words ‘Chatushkam’ are being used for fours, ‘Shathakam’ for sixes, and ‘Nirnayak’ for the umpire.

How are the interactions going on between the players?

During the match, mutual communication between players is also taking place in Sanskrit. This not only helps in practicing the language but also maintains discipline and cultural spirit in the game.

Who is organizing this series?

This event is being organized with the help of the Vedic Brahmin Youth Sports Welfare Committee and the Parshuram Welfare Board. This series is being organized for the sixth consecutive year.

What is the objective of the organizers?

According to Vishnu Rajoria, Chairman of Parshuram Kalyan Board, this event is an effort to keep Indian culture and Sanatan traditions alive. He says that through sports the youth can be connected to their cultural roots.

What kind of honor will the winners receive?

The winning players of the tournament will be given traditional honors. Players who win Man of the Match and Man of the Series will be presented with the Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta and Shri Ramcharit Manas.

Who will be the chief guest at the closing ceremony?

According to the organizers, Pandit Dhirendra Shastri, Peethadhishwar of Bageshwardham, will be present as the chief guest in the closing ceremony and will present the prize to the winning team.

What is the reaction of the audience to this event?

The spectators who reached the ground say that this experience is completely new. This combination of cricket and culture is attracting people and a large number of people are coming to watch the match.

Will there be more such events in the future?

The organizers believe that this experiment that started in Bhopal will reach more cities. This effort being done on the lines of Kashi has now started getting widespread support and there are plans to expand it further in the coming time.

This tournament is not just a sporting event but is becoming a unique confluence of tradition, language, and modern sports.