Lack of sponsorships hindered my progress, says 20-yr-old shuttler

Kolkata-based Arintap Dasgupta, 20, has been playing badminton for 13 years now. Each month his parents have to bear the high expenses on his training, physiotherapy, diet and supplements, let alone the expenses involved in personal training. Today, the sport of badminton grabs more eyeballs in India than it did some decades ago, thanks to the recognition of its ever-growing rich crop of players and the projection of their achievements in all mediums of communication. Despite the era of a resurgence in the sport, deserving young players like Arintap have to run pillar to post for financial aid.

Arintap is all set to pursue a career in badminton and nurtures a dream of representing the country in international tournaments. Currently ranked 12th in All India men’s singles, Arintap had decided to rely solely on his instincts. Perhaps, the same instincts that about 13 years ago guided young Arintap to choose a career in this sporting discipline. Speaking exclusively to The Bridge, Arintap reminisced:

I started playing when I was only seven years of age. I still remember going to the Garfa club with my father. That is where I started my journey. I joined the Prakash Padukone Academy in Bengaluru when I was 12. Training at the Academy helped me edge closer to achieving my goals. But there is still a long way to go.

Born and brought up in Kolkata’s Jadavpur, Arintap spends all his waking hours either playing or thinking about ways to excel at his chosen sport. What has stood out at an early age of seven was solely his passion to win and the ability to work extremely hard at his craft. Despite a high potential, he is now in need of financial assistance from the government that will enable him to play more international tournaments.

His letter to the Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju read:

I’m looking for brighter opportunities now which will help me participate in international tournaments. The lack of sponsorships has led to my international exposure being reduced. I request the Sports Ministry to provide me an opportunity to sharpen my skills and represent the country in the long run. I hope the Ministry will consider my request and help me to serve the nation.

Besides immense dedication, discipline, and patience involved in building a career in sports, the high cost of training and equipment could compel one to give up on their dreams. Arintap, who has been trying for sponsorships to support his career in badminton, is now awaiting a response from the government for his appeal for funds as he continues his training at the Prakash Padukone Academy in Bengaluru.