On Mumbai’s slow local, U Mumba ride the wave of success

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Meanwhile, veteran Jeeva Kumar, dressed in the prescribed black jersey that read “Champions 2015,” patiently waited by the travel desk for the unprecedented journey. Just as Mohun Bagan had done a few months ago after winning the I-League, and the 2014 IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders before them, the U Mumba team was to embark on a victory parade around Mumbai.

The festivities were arranged to mark the team being crowned champions in the second season of Pro Kabaddi League, when they beat Bengaluru Bulls 36-30 in the final, the previous night. Plans on the day included a taxi ride to Andheri railway station, where the team would board a local train to Churchgate, followed by an open jeep procession along Marine Drive.

Just as a crowd gathers around a film set, a sizable congregation assembled to praise and congratulate the players.

Skipper Anup Kumar, the most recognisable face in the tournament was the target of amateur shutterbugs, scrambling for that perfect shot with their cell phones even as a group of stern-looking security personnel, hired by the franchise, kept the crowd at arm’s length.

Through the narrow lane the group marched. The bouncers in the front moved civilians to either side. Fans cheered, stuck their hands out in hope that a player would shake it.

On platform No. 7, the mood and curiosity remained the same. Travellers in trains passing by had their gaze fixed on the group dressed in black jerseys. While Anup was the most adored, the Dabbawallas were chanting the names of Devadiga and Vishal Mane, the two local boys. Aboard the 3:12 pm slow train to Churchgate, the group finally had time for themselves. In a corner, Nada, Chhillar and Shimokawa had already dozed off, true to the spirit of train travel.

In turn Jeeva, who worked at the Western Railway for three years way back in 2003, Devadiga and Mane asserted that this was the easiest train ride they’ve ever had. “We would normally be hanging outside the train because of the crowd at rush hour. Playing kabaddi is easier than tackling the train rush,” says Devadiga.

As in Andheri, the reception at Churchgate was one of awe and bewilderment. Students from nearby colleges ran to catch a glimpse of the players, forgetting they had to catch their trains. Through public demand, Anup was hoisted along with the 18 kg trophy. But just as it was before, the security crew came forward to usher the players toward the exit.

Passengers and passersby alike were pushed aside to make room for the U Mumba players. Among those moved aside were members of the Indian Oil hockey team that was travelling to the nearby hockey stadium for a match.

Former India player Prabhjot Singh was made to make way, greeting the kabaddi team with a wry smile.

Another leg of the journey awaited the team as they boarded the four open-roof jeeps parked just outside the station.

Devadiga and Mane though rode pillion on the two pilot Harley-Davidson motorcycles that was leading the entourage.

Chhillar and Nada had by then regained their energy as they were the first to begin waving at the fans. The rest took their lead, ready to go through the entire procedure all over again.