Syed Kirmani inaugurates 133rd Annual Athletic Meet at St. Joseph’s College

Bengaluru, Sep 14: Former India wicket-keeper and 1983 World Cup winner Syed Kirmani advised the students not to imitate their role models but to achieve more than them.

The legendary stumper, Kirmani recently (Friday, September 11) inaugurated the 133rd Annual Athletic Meet of St. Joseph's College (Autonomous) in Bengaluru and went down memory lane recalling his school days.

"You alone are your inspiration," Kirmani, who played 88 Tests for India, said. "Don't follow your role models. Do better than what they have done," the 65-year-old added.

Kirmani, one of the best wicket-keepers of the game, declared open the annual sports day after a march-past, which saw over 3,000 students participating.

"Determination to do well is important. But more important is discipline. We must be mentally and physically disciplined to succeed in life and attain our goals," Kirmani explained.

"It is easy to reach the top position, but to maintain it at the highest level, it requires discipline and character," he said.

On seeing a student marching barefoot, a nostalgic Kirmani said, "It reminded me of my school days. My father could not afford to buy a pair of shoes. So, I had to run barefoot for my practice sessions." He went on to credit his success to the Almighty.

Recalling his memories of being a Josephite, Kirmani said, "It makes me nostalgic to be standing in this ground. I used to play Hockey in the present basketball court."

Shivakumar, CEO, Prabha Industries and AR Hebbar, entrepreneur and social worker, were guests of honour. The College Rector Rev Fr Brian Pereira SJ presided over the inauguration function.

OneIndia News