Bengaluru Bulls’ are gearing up for another season of the Pro-Kabaddi League and frontman Ajay Kumar is all excited to lock horns with the best players.
He had spent most of his childhood in a small village in Sonipat, Haryana where he used to play kabaddi with his friends after school.
Ajay has represented the Haryana and also went on to play for the country. In an chat with Nina C George, Ajay talks about his journey so far.
When did you decide to become a kabaddi player?
It was my father’s dream and I worked hard towards fulfilling that dream.
How does it feel to be a part of ‘Bengaluru Bulls’?
We have a wonderful coach who is quick to sport the strength in each of the players and encourages us to build on that. He also points out the weaknesses in each one of us and helps us overcome that.
Do you believe in developing a style of your own?
I don’t believe in having a style of my own. I just go with the flow.
How do you handle failure?
Failure is disturbing at first but I make all efforts to come out of it fast and move on. If I set my mind on winning, I don’t let anything else get in the way.
What do you have to say about kabaddi gaining popularity?
Kabaddi is now being recognised as a global sport and is being watched across the world. The fan following has almost doubled and the sport has gained wide acceptance.
How do you cope with pressure during a game?
I don’t take any pressure. I practise really hard and I get the desired results.
What is your biggest support system?
My family. They watch every game of mine and give me a lot of strength and confidence to tide over tough times.
What does your mother cook for you when you return home after a long gap?
‘Aloo paratha’. Nothing that I get outside compares to what my mother makes.
Are you a fitness freak?
Yes. I practise very hard and work out even harder.
What do you do when you are not playing kabaddi?
I watch movies and Abhishek Bachchan is my favourite star. I find his style of acting very unique.
What do you do when you are in Bengaluru?
It may sound a little cliched, but I love the weather and enjoy my stay here. I just relax, go restaurant-hopping and shop a lot.