Mannada’s stature as a footballer remained undiminished drawing awe and reverence from generations of Indian footballers who knew him only from the records and stories. But I was lucky enough to meet him and shared a good couple of hours with him which I’m sure will remain etched in my memory foreover.
It was one of the rarest moments of my life. Just before the 2000 Sydney Olympics, I chanced upon the thought to meet and interview India’s Olympic legends in Calcutta. Among India’s Olympic heroes, Sailen Manna’s name topped my list. Not only he was independent India’s first football captain, Mannada was an ideal sportsman and a perfect gentleman.
I didn’t had much problem in locating his modest government flat on C.I.T Road in central Calcutta. I reached the landmark (Litton St Post Office) on time as I’m always particular about the time.
Mannada was right there at the door to receive me. With his soft-demeanour and a gentle smile, he welcomed me at his place. Later, he directed me to his bedroom-cum-sitting room where he introduced me to his wife, Abhadi. I saw the glint in his eyes. He was 77 and, understandtably was elated to have someone from Delhi.
Our interaction started spot on football and his early years in Howrah where he was born and eventually the topic stretched to Mohun Bagan – the club he played 19 non-stop years. For a change, I curbed all my journalistic instincts and allowed him to speak. I munched crispy Calcutta singaras (snacks) and sandesh while I listened to the grand old man of Indian football who appeared to me as a dadu (grandpa) who was narrating his life’s experience to his grandson.
In fact, my experience and knowledge on Indian football (pre-1960) are based on such interactions with the legends. On his joining Bagan, Mannada felt that it was a natural love and likeness for players in his generation who wanted to play for Bagan. “In our days, Bagan was a big thing. Everybody wanted to play for them. Today, I feel proud to have played for such a famous club,” he said.
In fact, he was the symbol of a period in India’s sporting history when success on the field was firmly connected to emotions, excitement and values. Mannada will also be remembered for his 19 years service to Mohun Bagan, which is another reason to place him among true footballing greats, particularly in the modern age, where such royalty is becoming increasingly scarce.
I returned to Delhi with a regret. I couldn’t click a photo with him.
