Cricketers and film stars are idolised in this country. It’s they who bag all the love, recognition and also get to hang out with the prettiest babes in tinsel town. But now people have a new hero to look up to. His name is Vijender Singh. The pugilist has made the country proud by bagging a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. His success has made him into an overnight star with fans and corporates all wanting a taste of him.
A self-confessed Bollywood fan, Vijender loves to mingle with the people from the glamour world. Come 2010, he’s all set to make his TV debut as host of a boxing reality show – The Contendor
Speaking to reporters at the show’s press conference, Singh talks about his maiden TV show, the Indian youth, his love for film and more. Read on.
It’s no secret that you’re a hot property for both TV and film producers. Were you waiting for a show like The Contender?
That’s very much true. No two ways about it. I was offered all types of reality shows but I always wanted to do a show that’s associated with my sport.
Were you aware of such a reality show?
Yes, I know about The Contender very well. I’ve seen the American version on AXN. The show isn’t just about boxing but it also reveals the lives of these men. I’m glad that Bulldog and Percept have taken this initiative to bring this show to India.
What can we expect from Vijender the host?
As an anchor, my task is to merely share my experiences. What goes a through a boxer’s mind before stepping in the ring? What’s the difference between losing and winning? These are some of the things which I’ll share with them. Besides, I’ll be acting as a brother to them. They can feel free to share their personal problems too.
Do your seriously believe a reality show can help promote boxing in India?
Yes, I have no doubt about it. Most people in the country are aware of every rule of cricket but not boxing. Unless you don’t know the rules how will you play the game? That’s where The Contender will go a long way in explaining every minute detail of the sport to our audience.
But can participation in The Contendor provide them with an opportunity to represent the country?
Well, if they are serious about the sport they surely can take to professional boxing after The Contendor. Our aim is to provide a platform for the unearthed talent. I’m told that we’ll have international coaches who’ll provide best training methods to these boys. It will certainly prepare them for bigger challenges.
You rose to number two in rankings but the gold remains elusive. You’ve failed to clear the semi-final hurdle. Is it a mental block?
No, it’s just that it just wasn’t my day. My opponents played better on that day. However, I’m the first Indian boxer to have won a medal each at Commonwealth, Asian Games and Olympics. However it’s important to note that at least we Indian boxers are now performing at the big stage. It’s only a matter of time before we get the gold.
What difference do you see in the youth today?
The youth today is full of aggression. That’s the reason we see so many icons today be it in any field. Ek soch hoti hai, jo insaan ko upar leke jaati. Us soch ka hona bahot zaroori hai (It’s the thought that takes a man to the top. It’s important to have such a thought). I see that happening with the youth today.
Often, our other sportsmen blame cricket for their poor showing. Don’t you think your success has broken this myth?
Yes, I agree. Chadte suraj ko sabhi salaam karte hain (Everyone salutes the rising sun). Unless you don’t perform at the highest level you’ll never earn the respect.
Vijender has emerged as the new glam boy of Indian sport. Do you agree?
(Laughs) No, well like most Indians I’m in awe of our film stars. Thodi masti karli unke saath bahot ho gaya (I’ve enjoyed my time with superstars). I love the lifestyle in Mumbai. One may get impression that I’m getting carried away but that’s far from the truth.
But you’ve been receiving offers for films too. Won’t you be interested in taking it up?
Well, I need to have time to do a film. At the moment, I’m just concentrating on the 2010 Commonwealth Games. I’ll consider movies after it.
Are you a mamma’s boy?
Yes and I have no shame in accepting it. I miss my family when I’m away from home. I love my farms, my cattle, milk and mom’s food. I might have become a star but once home, I’m still the same old gaon ka chora (village boy).
You’re smitten by Bollywood stars. Any particular actress who has caught your imagination?
It would be unfair to single out anyone. I love them all.
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