I always thought cricket is an integral part of each and every Indian's psyche. My thought was confirmed by Chetan Bhagat whose latest book, The three mistakes of my life, deals with a character whose passion is cricket. But when I went to watch a game of pool in Kolkata I realised that another game actually meant a great deal to a lot of players. Many of them had moved over from different parts of the country just to be able to play pool in the eastern megapolis. Was I impressed!

The next thing that sprang to my mind was the Olympic Games. "That's where Indians should prove their worth," I told myself as I thought of this ancient celebration of sport, which is being held this year in Beijing. The Olympics are more popular world-wide when compared to cricket; the recognition the fame should be much higher than cricket. Cricket is acknowledged in sub-continent only just because we have not stepped out of the sphere. Should cricket be the be all and end all for India? Wake up!

It's not that people in India don't play other sports and games but many play them only as hobbies, and at best as recreation since parents don't see career prospects in sports other than cricket. Why? If we can put forth such an extravaganza on cricket during the IPL matches, why not take the initiative to promote something that would get recognition everywhere? It's not that our cricketers are the best. It's not that they win all matches and they are the best players. But we have talent in other sports that we should try and uplift as well.

This is not a lament against cricket and cricketers but just a reminder to India's population to encourage and applaud those people who are working now to get through the Olympic Games. Let's see our National flag being hoisted in our neighboring country and bring home the long-awaited gold medal that our country deserves. Let us motivate ourselves and people around us who are inclined but don't get the pat on their backs.

Feel the essence of it. Imagine being a player and in such a situation when you are alone overseas, fighting against champions from other nations but your country is cheering for cricket, with nobody to stand by your side. What can that be like? Come on! Join hands to celebrate the onset of joy in other sports as well. Look beyond… Haath se haath milao!