Haribhau Sane was visionary: IOA president

Pune, Aug 3 (UNI) Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Suresh Kalmadi expressed shock and grief over the demise of 'Maharshi' Haribhau Sane, who passed away here this morning.

He told UNI that Haribhau was an institution in itself and made immense contribution in the promotion of Indian games especially kabaddi and khokho. His sustained efforts enabled these games to reach the international standards.

He described Sane as a visionary for having introduced synthetic mat for kabaddi three decades ago, which ultimately bore fruit in Busan Asian Games four years ago, when the game was played on the mat.

His zeal and spirit were always evident through his tremendous contribution for the upliftment of Indian games, Mr Kalmadi said.

The void that has been created by his demise is difficult to fill, the IOA president added.

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