The Football World cup @ Qatar

 We just witnessed a nerve cracking final that will forever be engraved in our memories. This compels me to pen down my experiences of being part of this World Cup in Qatar.

Like everything these days, socio-economic-cultural-political discussions take center stage on social media and other circles, Qatar WC was no different. Ahead of my travel, main talking points rightly were the corruption allegations, mistreatment of migrant workers, homophobia and the list went on. Many of my friends and colleagues wanted to know my stand when I told them about my travel to the WC city. (This needs separate debate and discussions and is not part of this write up.)
But the moment we landed there; there was an innate sense of bon homie right from the airport staff to taxi drivers, our friends who hosted my family and made sure we were comfortable all the time, meeting some good old friends, the vibrant streets, the Souks, Corniche promenade, desert safari, beaches, sumptuous food, the volunteers at the stadiums and fan festivals, DJs, ''Metro-this-way'' man, the crowd amongst whom I felt the safest.
WC provided an unparalleled ground for cultural exchange, where I saw people of different race, religion, color, ethnicity, language, draped in colors of the teams they support; all of us so different from each other; but united for the love of the sport.
The delectable slice of the pie was witnessing Messi sprinkling some of his stardust on us, watching him live at the Lusail stadium in the Qtr final against NL. The vibe and enthusiasm in the atmosphere made those 130 mins cease to be just a football match but become a celestial event. Coming out of the stadium along with the mesmerized crowd chanting, cheering and singing, I was wondering where those 1Lakh people have vanished, as their traffic and public transports were so well coordinated, we could hardly see the panic and hassles of a huge unruly crowd that we are so accustomed to in our part of the world.
Like any beautiful dream, this splendid carnival had to come to an end and its glory was destined for Argentina! I haven’t been part of any WCs earlier, but never been in such a trance state ever in my life. It’s a feast to my soul with all the adrenaline rush, shocks, heart breaks, great goals, incredible celebrations, seeing legends chasing their dreams, and all the memories of the people I met etched in my heart forever.
Thanks Qatar!


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