New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded India’s emerging sprint sensations Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur during Episode 134 of Mann Ki Baat, praising their historic performances at the Federation Cup in Ranchi and highlighting their unique friendship-cum-rivalry that is helping elevate Indian athletics.
During a telephonic interaction, the Prime Minister commended the two athletes for pushing each other to new heights while maintaining a strong bond off the track. He described their sporting relationship as an inspiring example of healthy competition and teamwork.
Historic sprint battle captivates nation
The praise followed an extraordinary competition at the Federation Cup in Ranchi, where the national men’s 100-metre record was broken three times within a span of 48 hours.
Animesh entered the event holding the national record of 10.11 seconds. However, Gurindervir stunned spectators in the semi-finals by clocking 10.07 seconds to briefly become the fastest Indian ever.
The record changed hands again moments later when Animesh responded with a sensational run of 10.05 seconds in his semi-final race, reclaiming the national mark.
The rivalry reached its climax in the final, where Gurindervir produced a blistering performance to finish in 10.09 seconds and cement his place in history. His achievement made him the first Indian sprinter to break the 10.10-second barrier.
Friendship beyond the finish line
Despite competing fiercely for national supremacy, both athletes revealed that their relationship is built on mutual respect and encouragement.
Speaking during the interaction, Gurindervir said he had even helped Animesh during warm-up sessions before the race by offering advice on block positioning and race preparation.
However, he acknowledged that once they step onto the track, friendship gives way to competition.
According to Gurindervir, both athletes are determined to outperform each other during races, but maintain a close friendship away from competition.
Shared dream strengthens bond
Animesh explained that their friendship deepened while sharing accommodation during an international competition in Saudi Arabia.
The two athletes discovered they shared a common ambition of transforming perceptions about Indian sprinting and proving that Indian runners can compete at the highest level internationally.
Rather than viewing each other solely as rivals, they decided to use their competition as motivation to improve their performances and inspire future generations of athletes.
Their partnership has become an example of how healthy rivalry can contribute to individual and collective success in sport.
Prime Minister applauds sportsmanship
During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi praised the duo’s positive attitude and commitment to excellence.
He observed that their ability to challenge one another while continuing to support each other’s growth reflects the spirit of true sportsmanship.
The Prime Minister said their performances were helping raise the standards of Indian athletics and motivating young athletes across the country.
Focus shifts to Commonwealth Games
With their record-breaking performances generating excitement across the athletics community, attention now turns to upcoming international competitions.
Prime Minister Modi extended his best wishes to both sprinters for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games and expressed confidence that they would continue to achieve new milestones.
The remarkable achievements of Gurindervir and Animesh have sparked optimism about the future of Indian sprinting, with many seeing their rivalry as a catalyst for greater success on the global stage.