Sovik Mohanta:
Legendary striker Shyam Thapa still has a connection with his relatives in Nepal, his birthland. While speaking to Parallel Sports, the 77-year-old former Indian international said, “I have a lot of memories in Nepal. When I played there, I received huge appreciation and affection from the country’s people. Even the King of Nepal came to watch my game and met me. When I was coaching the Nepal side that time, I also received a lot of respect.”
Thapa remembered the same appalling situation in Nepal when the King died. He slammed he protesters, stating, “What are they trying to prove by burning the country’s famous temples and heritage sites? Isn’t this shame for them? Isn’t this a shame for the country? They could have made protests in a more gentle manner.”
Thapa, who was born in Gulmi district of Nepal, also revealed he still has relationships with his relatives in the country. “I talk to them over the telephone often. All of them are there. I am deeply concerned.”
Incidentally, the Nepal Army on Wednesday, citing threats to public security, said the prohibitory order in the country will remain effective until 5 pm, following which a nationwide curfew will be imposed until 6 am Thursday. The army said that in the name of the movement, the unruly groups carried out attacks on individuals and property and attempted sexual assaults. The country’s international airport has also been closed for an indefinite period.
