India in the World Cup Cricket Final

March 30, 2011

By Padmini Arhant,

Congratulations! To Indian Cricket team on the fabulous victory that has swept them to the final match to be held in Mumbai, India on April 2nd, 2011 against Sri Lanka.

Compliments extended to the Pakistani Cricket team for a spectacular fight to clinch the title.  The sports spirit was maintained throughout the game.

All are winners in a competition for individual contribution produces collective entertainment.

India and Pakistan were brought together for meaningful dialogue on this occasion which is a phenomenal beginning towards peaceful negotiations to continue in the near future.

India and Pakistan brilliant performance will be cherished in the most favorite sport of the Indian sub-continent.

Best Wishes to both teams for a fantastic display of talent and demeanor.

Good Luck! To India in the World Cup Final.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

World Cup Cricket 2011 Grand Tournament

February 19, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The World Cup Cricket grand tournament begins on February 19, 2011.

Bangladesh hosted the spectacular opening ceremony with fireworks amid 25,000 cheering cricket fans gathered for an up close view of their favorite sports heroes.

First match between India and Bangladesh held today in Dhaka, Bangladesh resulted in the Indian side winning by 87 runs.

Heartfelt Congratulations! To team India on the brilliant start with more to follow until the end.

Cricket is religiously followed in the Indian sub-continent. The mega sports event is the most popular and in some quarters revered by the cricket enthusiasts fervently praying and desiring for their respective home team to clinch the world title.

The sport that was once considered the ‘Lords’ Game’ – a legacy from British empire is now played in every nook and corner of South East Asia especially in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Similarly in other parts of the world – West Indies, South Africa and Zimbabwe, notwithstanding western nations like England, Australia, New Zealand along with relatively new entrants – Ireland, Canada, Netherlands and Kenya have significant admirers and young cricketers competing to surpass the native legends’ records.

In India – the passion for the game is contagious with cricket lovers idolizing their favorite player and cricket season marks the beginning of sports carnival.

The current world cup competition involves 14 international teams playing 49 match games over 43 days in 14 different venues spread across India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

It is a one-day cricket match with limited overs set at 50 for each side unlike the test match that continues with 2 innings played by both teams over minimum of 3-4 days for conclusion.

Undoubtedly the world cup kicked off with a promising trail from the successful opening ceremony in Bangladesh to the recent victory for the Indian team.

There are other formidable challengers with similar aspirations and their performance will be a real treat to the spectators and sprawling cricket fans worldwide.

Since each team will strive to dominate the show – the audience are sure to be entertained to their heart content.

Cricket craze is pervasive and the multinational caliber pronounces the effects during the fixated moment of world cup championship.

Ethics and economics aspect – The stakes are high in the tremendously appealing sport not devoid of controversies and scandals related to match fixing leading to emerging talents’ abrupt end of the career.

Similarly the crime investigation on the sudden demise of a foreign coach not long ago caused a maelstrom within the prestigious sports circle.

Sports are enjoyable at any time. However maintaining discipline and prioritizing high moral conduct would not only enhance individual image but also promote a positive message to several million impressionable minds preparing to enter the enthralling sport as professionals.

There are no losers in a contest for the participants share the glory in sports spirit.

On that optimistic note – Wishing phenomenal success to every contestant in the World Cup Cricket 2011.

Best Wishes to all sports stars of the riveting one-day international cricket.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

U.S. Special Olympics Athletes Need Your Kind Support

December 27, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Our Special Olympics athletes are all prepared and ready to compete in the forthcoming Winter Olympics in 2011.

However, the continuous advanced training would enhance the opportunity for them to claim victory in the international event.

For many of these athletes, it is a lifetime dream to prevail with indelible mark that will tear down barriers in human ability to succeed against the odds confronting them.

The phenomenal trend thus far has been made possible by great humanitarian organizations helping individuals from all walks of life to display their talent with pride despite the arduous journey in reaching the milestone.

Among them the Special Olympics organization committed to promoting human spirit through international sports deserves praise and admiration for the relentless work towards the honorable humanitarian service.

Today, they desperately need your kind attention to assist them with the daunting task of raising funds to provide for special programs to 567,000 athletes participating in the exciting world competition.

Please extend your generous support to these Heroes as they are about to perform in the Winter Special Olympics in January 2011.

The organization urgently requires your affordable donations by the deadline December 30, 2010.

Please visit www.specialolympoics.org

Donations could be sent to Special Olympics, 1133 19th Street, N.W. Washington DC 20036 USA

Toll Free +1 (800) 700-8585. Direct Tel. # – +1 (202) 628-3630.

Please email@specialolympics.org

Your overwhelming response will be deeply appreciated.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

XIX Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 – Farewell Ceremony

October 16, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The XIX Commonwealth Games in Delhi concluded this week with a grand closing ceremony.

Congratulations! To the Commonwealth Nations athletes for their victory in various sports.

Every one of them has tremendous skills in the relevant activity and the permeating exuberance added confidence among the contestants.

Hats off! To the Indian Athletes for their superb performance despite the critics’ dismal forecast at the CWG onset.

Besides maintaining the sports spirit your zeal to deal with the challenges every step of the way was admirable.

The rural India athletes especially the Northern State of Haryana were the superstars in the Indian team,

Considering the lack of opportunities and facilities available to them as compared to the urban sportsmen and women.

Reportedly, about 2% from rural Haryana alone contributed to more than 40% medal tally for India. It is a clear demonstration that every individual has some potential in one way or another.

Nurturing the natural capability in human beings can yield phenomenal results as witnessed in the recent games. There is a strong desire among the young aspirants to achieve their dreams in different areas of interest.

It is dependent upon the government and private sector attention to athletes in providing the physical training and financial means necessary to compete at the national and international level.

India’s academic accomplishment is reflected in the consistently positive economic growth with the government and non-governmental programs committed to accelerate the literacy rate among the rural and poorer communities across the nation.

However, the investments have been predominantly concentrated in popular team sports like Cricket, Hockey and Football/Soccer. The other sports are increasingly included in the category with an exception of the athletic promotion.

Given the athletes’ stellar record in the absence of motivational factors like sponsorships and scholarships, the private and public sector now have the incentives to transform the trend and perhaps contribute to enhance the winning prospects in the future.

All nations have greater advantage in cultivating their population attributes guaranteed to shine in every aspect. Obviously, the less privileged need solid support in exhibiting their individual talent which ultimately benefits the society.

Unequivocally all participants at the Commonwealth Games deserve praise for demonstrating their extraordinary qualities in a variety of sports. Their determination to win always makes the international competitions more exciting.

The final presentation was fabulous with a colorful show.

Again about 7000 artistes portraying the modern yet traditional India in perfect synchrony is a marvelous act and the choreography happily takes the cake in the grandeur fanfare.

The celebration is unique in offering the Indian portrait with the rich cultural heritage in full bloom pleasantly surprising the mesmerized audience throughout the pageant.

Followed by the fireworks that illuminated the sky adding brilliance to the ambiance amid cheering crowd bidding farewell to the host Delhi for the spectacular display,

Meanwhile greeting the beautiful Glasgow, Scotland, the next CWG venue in 2014.

XIX Delhi Commonwealth Games is a monumental feat for India emerging from near withdrawal to the glorious finale in sports and the magnificent festivity.

The Gala event signified a glowing tribute to the athletes and the performers in the cultural extravaganza.

All are winners in the sports arena for their honorable participation.

Indian Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh, Congress Leader Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, the Home Minister P. Chidambaram, the Delhi Chief Minister, the entire Commonwealth Games organizing committee members and employees share the acknowledgment for the terrific success.

Good Luck and Best wishes to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

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XIX Commonwealth Games Grand Opening Ceremony – Delhi, India

October 4, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Heartfelt Congratulations! To India, especially Delhi, the XIX Commonwealth Games host on the spectacular extravaganza prominently showcased at the ‘Gala Opening Ceremony,’ held on October 3, 2010 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

You did it! That too with magnificent glory and pride.

It’s a testimony that whenever human talent is challenged with the ‘impossible’ verdict, the inspirational spirit within guides to rise to the occasion and prove it otherwise.

The ceremony is an amazing feat for the vibrant civilization unfolded in the twenty first century technological era in perfect harmony and wrapped in a colorful cultural performance depicting the magical kingdom of India through the refracted prism images from the spectrum of light illuminating the sky with mesmerizing fireworks.

Technology oriented themes such as the ‘Aerostat,’ a large helium balloon raised to the 25 meters height above the ground, decorated with mirrors and rainbow lights is designed to project high resolution video occurrence and visuals at 360 degrees in addition to synchronizing with the parade on the ground.

The enthralling presentation was one of a kind appreciated with the spectators’ continuous applause in sheer bewilderment.

The live shows on stage were captivating with seven thousand artistes from diverse cultural background performed with great enthusiasm creating a parallel universe by revealing the caliber among the unsung maestros in classical, folk and modern music and dance.

The co-ordination in this context was in itself a tremendous tribute to the choreography.

The long cherished Indian cultural heritage was exhibited in the pageantry winning the hearts and minds of the audience at home and around the world.

Synthesizing innovation with tradition produces a unique effect profoundly highlighting the characteristics in ancient art and modern techniques.

India is naturally suitable for such experiment given the enriched antiquity and the phenomenal technological endowments together contributing to the ravishing display.

Around seventy one nations are participating in various sports activities and the solidarity was evident during the opening ceremony.

The assimilation of these nations with a common pledge to build new relations and enhance old ties through sports is an admirable humanitarian goal.

There is abundant opportunity through international sports to heal and reconcile differences for mutual progress in every dimension.

Sports and entertainment are often the ice-breakers in the frozen diplomatic channels facilitating renewed hope for a fresh beginning.

Nations could seize the floating chance to reflect, pause and proceed with a dialogue conciliatory to both parties.

Many unresolved disputes have been revived due to sincere engagement and amicable approach in the contentious issues ultimately yielding the desirable outcome.

As for the competitiveness in the related sports at the international level, the athletes representing each nation would justifiably aim for their victory and every other contender in that respect is a potential threat to them.

Again, maintaining a balanced strategy that would enable accomplishment without compromising sportsmanship is ideal to promote sports acumen, teamwork and national image.

Being the ambassadors for the respective nations, the athletes have an awesome responsibility to demonstrate qualities helping them to win in the relevant field while protecting the national interest.

Although most participants excel in interpersonal skills, sometimes incidents evolve into an unnecessary controversy.

In other matter, it’s imperative to focus on the outstanding security efforts and the final preparation leading to the Commonwealth Games commencement splendor.

The entire games village is equipped with surveillance cameras, tight security measures and above all guarded by an estimated eight thousand Indian commandos for the athletes, visitors and residents’ 24/7 safety.

All of the minor and major problems pertaining to the initial delay appear to have been effectively addressed in compliance with the international standard and to the sports community’s optimal satisfaction.

Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh, Congress Party Leader Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Indian Commonwealth Games organizing committee members and above all the workers at the bottom delegated to the finishing tasks deserve recognition for a superb finále.

The impressive organizing is attributed to the excellent management and,

An unequivocal commitment to prevail against all odds from the top bottom ensured success.

However, it’s essential to preserve and possibly expand the status quo comprehensively to strengthen future prospects.

A valuable lesson from the recent experience is – a resilient unified input guaranteed to triumph in the extenuating circumstances.

India exemplified the notion with grace, charm and exceptional fanfare.

On that optimistic note, signing off with deep gratitude and acknowledgment for the fabulous start of the XIX Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India.

Good Luck! And Best Wishes to all athletes from different parts of the world in realizing their dreams at the international event.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 – New Delhi, India

September 23, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The delay in preparedness and various issues concerning the games village has justifiably placed the CWG authorities in spotlight. Being an international event the expectations in the readiness for the athletes arrival is fair and considering the organizers’ miserable failure the reaction is normal.

Although the village complex should have been made available in top notch condition months ago, the torrential rain causing the Yamuna River flooding exacerbated the situation.

Nevertheless, the status quo could be turned around to the international standard despite the pessimism, criticism and the time factor.

For a nation with an incredible talent and human capital, a renowned technology hub, the phenomenal output from the motion picture industry and above all the September 2009 rewarding lunar mission leading to the water detection in the moon, the CWG village restoration should be a no brainer.

It’s clear the committee behind construction and organization needs to be replaced immediately by a nationally or internationally acclaimed robust private industry with expertise in crisis management and sensitivity to the related multinational games.

Most importantly, eliminating bureaucracy that could have partially contributed to the existing problem and diverting attention to the surrounding issues with a positive result is paramount.

Perhaps, the crew hired for the airport project –‘Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3’ that not only produced an exemplary work but also reportedly completed the task within budget and delivered prior to the deadline would be appropriate since they were engaged earlier for the CWG purpose.

It’s incumbent upon everyone across the nation to aid in the CWG rescue rather than allowing the scheduled activity to fall apart.

As for the security issue, the threats during any international occasion are not uncommon – from Olympics to G-20 summits the terror warnings are floated in to discourage the sports or meeting occurrence. When heeding to fear mongering the terrorists and their agenda prevail over rationality and solidarity.

Ensuring tight security around the CWG site again by the competent security agencies – government forces along with trusted local private security firms should adequately provide the necessary protection all over the city.

The technology could be extensively used to thwart any attempts by installing ‘CCTV cameras with audio’ all around to enable further assistance in this regard. Citizens cooperation would enhance the efforts.

It’s important to realize that New Delhi has hosted many successful international events prominently the 1st Asian Games back in March 4 – March 11, 1951 and later the IX Asian Games in 1982 when the Asian Games Village was uniquely designed by the leading architect Raj Rewal who recently completed the much admired Indian Parliament library in New Delhi – attracting accolades.

Per Architecture Week: Specializing in Architecture Design and Building

“The recently completed Parliament Library in New Delhi, India is a response to its monumental context and yet ingenious in its originality.

Designed by architect Raj Rewal, the library is a fine example of post-colonial Indian architecture. It displays high technology with a regional expression, it is modern yet rooted in precolonial history, and it responds thoughtfully to its challenging colonial and political context.”

In addition to sports events, New Delhi has been the popular venue for International Trade Expositions and Symposiums housing delegates and participants from all corners of the world.

Similarly in other parts of India, the Hyderabad Asian-Africa Games in 2003 was proved a remarkable achievement.

India – the land of magnificent palaces, temples and historic monuments is most famous for “The beautiful Taj Mahal,” – all serving as an unparalleled architectural marvel and sculptural feast for the eyes since time immemorial.

Therefore, the CWG facilities across the spectrum should have exceeded the national and international evaluations.

Nonetheless, the athletes accommodation and the venue could be upgraded or relocated to a desirable ambiance in the city through private intervention rather than local government involvement.

Besides, the investments are at stake notwithstanding the national image and reputation.

There is no time to procrastinate and India in the twenty first century cannot resign to ‘not doable,’ approach but instead demonstrate collective responsibility in proving that,

Where there is a will there is a way.

Actions carried out in true human spirit and national interest is bound to triumph the trials and tribulations.

Commonwealth games must proceed to fulfill the humanitarian commitment through sports with utmost diligence assuring the athletes as well as the residents comfort, safety and security.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

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Super Bowl XLIV

February 8, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Congratulations! To The New Orleans Saints for a great victory in the first Super Bowl.

It’s a great comeback from 3 – 10 in the first quarter and racing to the final score at 31-17, indeed a spectacular win.

Saints’ Quarterback Drew Brees deserves the Most Valuable Player Award for leading the team to the “Hall of Fame,” and New Orleans city to new heights.

Hopefully some fortune from the super game will be distributed to the city and Katrina victims.

The Indianapolis Colts’ Quarterback Peyton Manning and the remaining team share equal distinction for their tremendous performance especially in the beginning and the defense was superb.

Other artists contributed to the event’s elegance.

Overall, it’s a fabulous entertainment.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

2016 Olympic Games

October 4, 2009

By Padmini Arhant

Heartfelt Congratulations! To the world famous Mardi Gras city, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil for the spectacular victory in their bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games.

Although, all contestants’ promotional bidding was exceptional, the Brazilian presentation was compelling and befitting the outcome. The IOC decision was fair and appropriate considering the other bidders had hosted the international event before and in the case of the United States on numerous occasions within the Olympics diversifications, i.e. Summer, Winter and Para Olympics in several venues, making the USA a prominent host of the most Olympics.

It’s a phenomenal feat for the South American nation, a rising economy and an international champion in the world-renowned sport, ‘football.’ Brazil also honored to host the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and now the Summer Olympics in 2016, an extraordinary achievement for the rising star.

Brazil’s well deserving stardom would enormously boost the image of the Americas due for a refreshing change and recognition in the global events. The opportunity to host the Summer Olympics would enhance the South American nation to play a lead role in the geopolitics and economic affairs. By selecting the carnival city Rio De Janeiro to host the 2016 Olympics, the IOC has facilitated tourism and travel by the participants/visitors and other economic prospects for the struggling economies in the Americas, barely surviving the global economic crisis.

Sports and entertainments are the best avenues for global peace and harmony. Olympics and other international sports are important for better understanding and appreciation of other cultures and talents exhibited in these events. In the world dealing with persistent violence and political turmoil, the antidote for the human pain is the soothing message of solidarity through competitive activities.

Sports in general nurtures nationalism and more so in the international arena. As long as it is restricted to the spirit of competition and not outreaching political vendetta like demonstrated on various accounts, sports constitutes an integral part of the social spectrum.

The athletes representing each nation have an individual responsibility to be the ideal ambassador for their country in their demeanor… as their actions often perceived to be representative of the entire population.

There have been genuine concerns among certain members of the society against hosting international sports such as Olympics, indicating the negative impact on the city population often forced to relocate to a remote area in order to accommodate the extravagant sports facilities.

Further, they claim that in most instances, the action involved severe police brutality and city council authorities’ lack of consideration to the residents of these metropolitan cities.

Apparently, the massive cleanup operation and decoration hastily carried out in preparation for the gala ceremony and the people plight frequently ignored in terms of noise pollution, traffic congestion not excluding the zonal inflation arising from the visitor influx to the city.

Another factor pertains to the use of the facilities after the event is over. Like witnessed in most Olympic venues, the host city burdened with debts and redundancy of these structures constructed for a specific purpose and time. Brazil will have a daunting task in this respect, as Rio De Janeiro has a vast economically vulnerable population, a common characteristic of any developing nation.

Therefore, it’s important for the local, the federal government and the private organizations to respect the rights and interests of these citizens during the macro planning for the event.

It’s essential for the host nations’ governments and the organizing committees to devise a strategy beyond the economic standpoint, i.e. the people prioritized over profit. Perhaps, Brazil could be the paradigm for future host nations in this crucial yet contentious issue as it is more likely that other developing nations might pursue the hosting of the popular event in the near future.

Good Luck and Best Wishes! to the Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and the people of the Federal Republic of Brazil in their march towards greater progress and prosperity for them and the Americas.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

International Olympics: Beijing 2008

August 20, 2008

The grand opening ceremony by China to unveil the 29th Olympiad games in Beijing on August 8th, 2008 was impressive.

There were many “Gold, Silver and Bronze” medalists honored at this event.

The stellar performance by Michael Phelps as the “World and Olympic Champion” swimmer was incredible. His goals were to achieve “eight gold medals” to set up a new World and Olympic record in Beijing 2008. Michael realized his dream by winning “eight gold medals”, surpassing the record of the former athlete “Mark Spitz” who won seven gold medals in the same Olympic event. Michael’s name and fame reached sky high competing with the fireworks displayed at the Opening Ceremony of this international event.

Congratulations! Michael Phelps you are truly a great inspiration and a role model.

Also “hats off” to the Olympic marvels – Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor, the “dynamic duo” of the Women’s Volleyball, “Ryan Lochte – wonderful performance with a gold medal and a world record”, Aaron Peirsol, Brendan Hansen, Dara Torres – tremendous spirit.

Again Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones and Jason Lezak – in setting the record straight against the “French team” with gold medals after winning the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay swimming, the NBA Basketball stars and the entire U.S. Olympic team – terrific games!

All U.S. athletes put on a dazzling performance. The spectacular display of talent in all events by the U.S. Olympic team contributed towards the United States leading the Medal tally. We need to catch up with the host nation “China” on the “Gold Medal” count, even though it does not appear to be a great challenge.

All athletes were at their best given numerous factors related to age, past performance and last but not the least mishap with the “Women’s Gymnastics”. It was commendable that Alicia Sacramone handled the whole situation gracefully and proved herself to be a good sport.

A tribute to all athletes from different parts of the world –

Usain Bolt of Kingston, Jamaica wins the gold medal in the 100-meter dash in 9.69 seconds. The rumor that he might have a future with NFL further enhances the prospects for the athlete.

Several athletes from poor and developing nations showcasing their talent are praiseworthy for competing against developed and rich nations with far better facilities and advanced training programs. 

It has been a week since the 29th Olympic games started and it is not devoid of controversies;

The controversy involved the allegedly “underage” or minor “Chinese Female Gymastics” team with an advantage to seize the gold medal against the U.S team.

Not surprisingly some athletes testing positive for “performance enhancement drug”.

The very latest news; NBA forbidden from signing up the 7’2” Iranian Basketball Olympian Hamed Ehadadi as per the letter received by the NBA legal counsel according to Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo Sports that stated “We have been advised that a federal statue prohibits a person or organization in the United States from engaging in business dealings with Iranian nationals.”

Then the buzz about the “Spanish Basketball team” with several NBA players including the Lakers’ Pau Gasol and Toronto’s Jose Calderon, in the audacious team photo posing in a “squinty-eyed” gesture angered the Asian athletes accompanied by sparring of words in the Asian press media. This incident also raised the “double standards” issue among the African American NBA players.

The “Excerpts from the news article by Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo! Sports Aug 13, 10:24 am EDT – Thank you.

Gasol and Calderon aren’t just accountable to Spain on this Olympic stage but the global corporate entity that pays them more than $130 million in pro contracts. The NBA could’ve delivered a ready rebuke on Wednesday and there was none.

They’ll dock you $50,000 for ripping an incompetent official, but you can get a pass on an orchestrated racial slur? Gasol is kidding himself to say that he was pushed into it. Do you think Kobe Bryant would’ve been pressured to pose this way? LeBron James? Gasol is a serious, sensitive player with the prestige and clout for Spain to step up and say: Forget it, fellas. This isn’t happening. Only he didn’t.

As much as anything, this episode feeds a prevailing feeling among African-American NBA players that they’re the constant scapegoats for whatever issues – real or perceived – plague the sport. Without the public demanding a pound of accountability for European players, do they get a pass?

“The simple question is, ‘Would NBA commissioner David Stern and the league hold the American players accountable?’ And I think the answer to that is yes,” one NBA general manager said. “So why wouldn’t he hold the ‘other’ NBA players accountable – unless the rules only apply to the American players.”

———————————–

International Olympics and politics have collided since the origin of this event. Even though the Olympic event is symbolic in defining international solidarity with nations gathering together to pledge their support for peace and harmony, some nations have used the same event as a platform to air their political differences and hostility against each other.

There have been bomb threats, boycotts and even a hostage crisis….the notorious one being the “Munich massacre”.

Munich massacre

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia – Thank you.

The Munich massacre occurred during the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, West Germany, when members of the Israeli Olympic team were taken hostage by Black September, a group with ties to Yasser Arafat’s Fatah organization.

By the end of the ordeal, the terrorist group had killed eleven Israeli athletes and coaches and one German police officer. Five of the eight members of Black September were killed by police officers during an abortive rescue attempt. The three surviving terrorists were captured, and were later released by West Germany following the hijacking of a Lufthansa airliner, a release that has led to speculation that West Germany had helped stage the Lufthansa hijacking.[3][4]

Israel responded to the massacre with Operation Spring of Youth and Operation Wrath of God, a series of Israeli air strikes and assassinations of those suspected of planning the killings.”

Perhaps the twenty first century could teach mankind to respect and understand each other as part of the “human race” and spare the sports event from becoming the battleground to resolve any political crisis.

Padmini Arhant

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