Book review | Net Flicks: Untold stories of Indian badminton

Badminton is the most popular individual sport in India, yet there is a noticeable lack of literature on the subject. The game has given the country some of its best athletes, but it hasn’t piqued the interest of many Indian sports book writers to chronicle its inspiring past and meteoric rise in recent years.

In that sense, Net Flicks, authored by veteran cricket journalist Vijay Lokapally and his son, Akshay Lokapally, is a welcome and valuable addition to the limited Indian badminton literature. The book traces the evolution of the game from a time when it was hampered by the apathy of its administrators to its present status, where it boasts world-class facilities, expertise and opportunities, rivalling top badminton nations.     

Indian badminton has a rich history, marked by the perseverance and dedication of legendary players who have overcome numerous challenges to bring the sport to global prominence. The book encapsulates this journey, shedding light on the remarkable achievements of past and present badminton stars. From pioneers like Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand to modern-day champions such as Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu, the book delves into their struggles and triumphs, offering readers an in-depth look at the evolution of the sport in India. It brings to life the untold stories of Indian badminton through meticulous research, rare interviews and expert analysis. 

At the heart of Net Flicks is a comprehensive narrative of Indian badminton’s most significant moments, from the nation’s early dominance in the sport to recent victories that have cemented its status on the world stage. It recounts iconic achievements, including the historic All-England titles, India’s Thomas Cup triumph, successes at the Asia Team Championships and the Olympics. 

The book’s standout feature is its focus on 24 distinguished players who have made significant contributions to Indian badminton. Among them is Nandu Natekar, a trailblazer of the sport, whose chapter is based on an exclusive interview. The authors have also enlisted the experiences of players like Kanwal Thakar Singh, Manjusha Kanwar, Aparna Popat, Madhumita Bisht, and Ameeta Singh, among others.

A poignant chapter in the book is that of the Lahore-born Prakash Nath, whose promising career was cut short by the impact of mindless violence following India’s Partition that forced his family to migrate to India while leaving behind a flourishing business. Syed Modi’s promise and tragic passing are equally evoking. The emergence of Padukone from Karnataka with little pedigree in the sport and his pioneering achievements on the court are chronicled well.

The book dedicates a special chapter to Syed Mohammed Arif, the esteemed badminton coach from Hyderabad, who has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several Indian badminton greats. His mentorship has paved the way for stars such as Gopichand, Sindhu, Jwala Gutta and Nehwal.

Furthermore, the book ensures that the contributions of lesser-known stalwarts from the 1950s and 60s, such as Damayanti Tambay, Hufrish Nariman, and Leroy D’Sa, are not forgotten. These players, despite their talent and commitment, often struggled with limited resources and international exposure, yet their perseverance laid the groundwork for future generations.

Through engaging storytelling, Net Flicks not only narrates the historic victories of Indian badminton but also highlights the sport’s transformation into a national passion. It captures the shift in public perception and growing fan engagement, driven by increased media coverage, government support, and corporate sponsorships. Today, badminton is no longer a niche sport in India but a mainstream spectacle that attracts millions of fans and aspiring athletes.

Whether you are a die-hard badminton fan, a sports enthusiast, or a casual reader, Net Flicks offers compelling insights into the world of Indian badminton. It is a tribute to the legends who shaped the sport, the rising stars who continue to elevate it, and the unsung heroes who fought against the odds to keep the game alive. 

With its well-researched content, interesting anecdotes and expert perspectives, Net Flicks is a must-read for anyone who appreciates sports history and the spirit of perseverance. This book is not just about badminton — it is also about the journey of Indian athletes who dared to dream against all odds and turned those dreams into reality.