Indian men's football team defender Pritam Kotal not only stands in front of India's goal and defends the ball, he even defends people from the hardships of life.
26-year-old Kotal, who has faced childhood struggles himself, does not want others to go through the same, which is why he chooses to help people in any way that he can.
"I faced hardship during my childhood. I wish no one faces the same. That's the reason behind my tiny efforts to lend a hand towards those who need an extra bit of push. We were fortunate enough to get support from our seniors. If we don't give it back to those who need it, then honestly, we don't deserve to be where we are today," an emotional Kotal narrated in a live session with AIFF TV.
Kotal recalled how his parents struggles to make ends meet and thanked his parents for being a huge support for the social cause he picked up.
"I didn't have boots, jerseys, balls. I had to look for others' help. But my parents used to bear the brunt and safeguard me always. It's like everything in football - and life. You need to look, you need to think, you need to move, you need to find space, you need to help others. It's very simple in the end," Kotal continued.
"Owing to my schedule and different commitments, I can hardly stay at my home. But, whoever feels hungry, needs help, doesn't think twice to come to our home. My mom finds solace in feeding them. It's like our collective effort to giving back to society. Our door stays open for 24 hours for anyone and everyone."
Pritam, who has already played 36 matches for the Blue Tigers, has come up with a Football Academy, along with a few other current players. He fears malnutrition might dent our future generation, and that's the primary reason for him stressing on the importance of nutritious food besides proper training.
Meanwhile, he elaborated that his gymnasium also stays open for them whoever wants to break an extra sweat to stay fitter. Even Kotal's parents don't think twice before letting them in to use it even when he's not around -- a bond of trust encapsulated perfectly.
"During the lockdown, I could realise the utility of my personal gymnasium. But, probably it's the first instance when I used it for so many days at a stretch. Generally, the local boys who can't afford to pay the fees of a professional gym don't hesitate to use mine. It's not just mine, it's for everyone."
"It hardly matters whether I'm around or not. They come and use it. Since my U-19 days in Goa, I craved to have my own gymnasium. I feel I need to share it with them who also needs it big time."
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