PANJIM: Goa’s very own Grandmaster Bhakti Kulkarni expressed much joy on being nominated for the Arjuna award.
Bhakti said on Monday, “It feels great getting nominated in a state where football is everything. But now I am happy chess has gained that popularity! It will attract more participation from the parents to make their kids chess players.”
Bhakti had applied for the award for the past two years but was not considered. “Chess players were not given the Arjuna award for the past nine years. But this year, the Olympiad medal had made some big impact and sensation in the country,” she said.
Bhakti is the first Goan woman to receive the prestigious sporting honour, and the first non-footballer from the state.
Padma Shri Brahmanand Shankhwalkar (1998) and Bruno Coutinho (2001), both footballers, have won the Arjuna Award.
“The panel considers performances at the international level for the last five years. So, I was eligible for the past two years too. But I think everything works in its own time. I hope this time I get it.”
Speaking about her plans for the next six months, she said would be extremely busy as a chess player with several high level league tournaments in the next few months but she would not be at liberty to provide more details.
Bhakti said she would consider training young Goans once she takes up a job in the Sports Authority of Goa. She would also have to meet officials to discuss a few points regarding the same.
Speaking about the quality of talent in the state, Bhakti said, “There are plenty of talented players in Goa. This is due to our chess association organizing tournaments on a regular basis. I am sure the players will do well if given proper training and financial support.”
