R Arun Kumar
THE National Committee for Solidarity with Cuba has decided to observe the birth centenary of legendary Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro in a befitting manner.
Fidel Castro was a multifaceted personality – a staunch fighter for equality, justice, and the struggle against imperialism. He was among the first leaders of the world to highlight the dangers of environmental destruction, and he consistently championed the rights of the Global South, particularly of those still reeling under colonial exploitation and oppression. Because of his diverse commitments and unwavering support for various causes, Fidel earned respect across the political spectrum. Eminent figures such as writer Gabriel García Márquez and legendary footballer Diego Maradona adored him and considered him a friend. The poor, naturally, embraced him, reflecting a deep, mutual bond of love between the world’s most oppressed people and Fidel.
The Solidarity Committee decided to highlight these varied aspects of Fidel’s life during his centenary observance and celebrations. As an initial step, it organised a football tournament – the Castro Centenary Football Cup – in Delhi. This was the first time such an initiative had been made, yet it received enthusiastic support and participation.
When planning began about a month before the event, discussions centred on how many teams could realistically be invited. Given the short preparation time, it was estimated that no more than 16 teams could be mobilised. Another reason for this conservative estimate was that football, though loved by many, is relatively less popular in India compared to its ‘rich cousin’, cricket.
However, these estimates were quickly overturned once the tournament was announced. Our volunteers reached out to clubs and teams in and around Delhi, and within just ten days, 32 teams had registered. The diversity of the participants was remarkable. Student teams from premier institutions such as IIT and AIIMS took part, breaking the stereotype that such students focus solely on academics and rarely play sports. Teams from the Delhi Police, as well as football clubs from across the city’s South, North, West, and East parts, joined in. Two teams were composed predominantly of African students and employees living in Delhi. One team was captained by a Class 12 student, with most players of the same age group, while another team travelled all the way from Rajasthan to participate in the tournament.
While this was about the teams, their composition also reflected the diversity of our great country. There were players from Kerala, almost all the states of the North East, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, and, of course, from Delhi and its adjoining states. It is neither fair nor appropriate to view or differentiate players in terms of caste or religion. But for those who doubt the inclusiveness of sports, it can be confidently stated that believers of all faiths – and even some non-believers – took part. The same was true for caste. Sport does not discriminate on the basis of religion or caste, and when administered properly, true talent always thrives. This tournament proved that once again.
In terms of talent the event attracted, it would not be an exaggeration to say the level was top-notch. Six players from various teams in the Indian Super League (ISL) and ten players from the I-League – representing the highest level of Indian football – participated. They represented various clubs and teams competing in the tournament.
The tournament was held over four days – August 2-3, and August 9-10. Matches began at 7:00 in the morning and continued until 5:00 in the evening. When these dates were finalized – all on weekends – the organisers had one particular concern: August 9th was Raksha Bandhan, one of the most important festivals in North India. There was some doubt about whether players would want to play on that day. But neither during the draw nor on the festival day did any player express hesitation or reluctance. All arrived on time for their matches and competed fiercely.
It was not because they were players without sisters – many of them had sisters, as became evident the next day when several members of the winning teams sported rakhis. This only shows that when there is strong motivation and inspiration, festivals do not stop people from pursuing activities they are passionate about.
Moreover, on August 9th, Delhi witnessed a heavy downpour, and almost all the matches that day were played in the rain!
The success of the entire tournament was made possible by the dedication of the volunteers, who devoted their time and energy to its smooth conduct. They arrived before the matches began, prepared and decorated the ground, and made all necessary arrangements. They were also the last to leave each day – only after the matches had ended and the ground had been cleaned and made ready for the next day’s games.
Many of the volunteers came from the Malayali cultural organisation Janasamskriti, as well as from the youth and student organisations DYFI and SFI. While some had prior experience in volunteer work, most had never before participated in organising a sports tournament, especially not a football event. Nevertheless, they learned quickly and adapted well. They registered teams, collected player lists, served as ball collectors, and provided refreshments to tired but enthusiastic players. A small medical team was also on hand to attend to on-field injuries. In the process, many volunteers picked up valuable skills and are now equipped to take part in organising future events.
One of the most inspiring aspects for both players and volunteers was the regular presence of Cuban diplomats and former Indian footballers. The Ambassador of Cuba, Juan Carlos Marsán, attended for two days, along with Abel Despaigne, the Deputy Head of the Cuban Embassy. M A Baby, Convenor of the National Committee for Solidarity with Cuba, inaugurated the tournament alongside the Ambassador, while Member of Parliament Sivadasan greeted players on two separate days.
In addition to the diplomats and leaders of the solidarity movement, former Indian footballer C K Vineeth attended for two days, and actively interacted with players – offering suggestions, sharing strategies, and giving tips to sharpen their skills. Without a doubt, the young players benefited from his presence and were deeply inspired by his commitment to the Cuban cause.
As with any competition, there was a winner – Nexus Football Club. But here, there were no losers. All the teams left with smiles and expressed their eagerness to participate in next year’s tournament.
The concluding highlight was an exhibition match between the Ambassadors XI, captained by the Cuban Ambassador, and the Solidarity Committee XI, led by M A Baby. Former captain of the Indian Football team, and one of the greatest players of the country, Bhaichung Bhutia took part in the match and played for its entire duration. Diplomats from six countries played for the Ambassadors team, while members of various organisations involved in the solidarity movement represented the Solidarity Committee. Young players from the tournament also joined both sides, adding a spirited competitive edge to the game.
The match was a draw during the full time and the Ambassadors team won in the penalty shootout.
Both teams paid tribute to Obaid al-Suleiman, captain of the Palestinian football team, who was killed by Israeli armed forces when he was waiting for aid in Gaza. He was fondly known as the ‘Palestinian Pele’.
The tournament concluded by underscoring the stark contrast between imperialism and socialist Cuba. While Israel, backed by US imperialism, continues its killing spree, including of sportspeople like Suleiman, socialist Cuba continues to nurture sporting talent despite decades of economic blockade, a fact reflected in its strong presence at many world competitions.. Fidel Castro spent his life exposing the brutal, inhuman character of imperialism, and this tournament stood as a reminder of that legacy.
The winners of the tournament were felicitated on August 13 at a commemorative meeting held at HKS Surjeet Bhavan. Diplomats from 13 countries and leaders from the CPI(M), CPI, CPI-ML (Liberation), Forward Bloc, RJD, and SP, participated in the event and paid tribute to Fidel Castro.
The Solidarity Committee extended its gratitude to the match officials, volunteers, and sponsors for their contributions in making the tournament a success.
