Visa restrictions do not permit Pak players to visit native villages

Mansha recalls,“My grandfather lived in a village near Ludhiana and always talked about the riches we had owned. I want to visit my village but the tight security cover around us does not allow us to move out.”

Ali,who is employed with Pakistani Railway Police,had visited Ram Dulari village in 2008 when he came for a few Kabaddi matches,and he wishes to see it again. “My grandfather lived in this village. Though our entire family migrated to Pakistan during Partition,there are still a few people who know us. It was nice to meet them,” a nostalgic Ali said.

He adds,“This part of our history is slowly fading away and I just wanted to hear tales of my family once more before this generation passes away.”

Riyaz,who is beating the heat in the pool,says,“My grandfather,too,lived near Amritsar and our native village is Kamlapur. My elder brother had been there but I am yet to see the village. I know there may not be any one in the village who knows our family but I want to see my roots.”

The team is busy drawing up their shopping lists and are excited about visiting Chaura Bazaar in the city. While some want to shop for sarees,others are looking for wollens and blankets. Imitiaz Alam,captain of the team,says,“People in India and Punjab have showered immense love on us. We never felt as if we were playing on a hostile land. We may not have too many supporters in the crowd,but that is understandable,” added Alam.