Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club
Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club: A Catalyst for Inclusivity, Diversity, and Sportspersonship
The Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club represents a groundbreaking initiative to make snooker—a sport traditionally associated with exclusivity—accessible to everyone. Established by Kabeer Karunik, a renowned Indian snooker player and descendant of freedom fighter Shanti Kumar Singh, this endeavorcelebrates the enduring legacy of Mirza Ghalib, a poet who embodied India’s pluralistic spirit, and the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India.
On December 10, 2024, International Human Rights Day, the Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club will officially open at the Mirza Ghalib Global Centerfor Pluralism and Diversity in Baghawanala, Varanasi. This significant launch highlights the conviction that recreational and developmental opportunities are fundamental rights, essential to building an inclusive and equitable society.
Honoring Ghalib and the Spirit of Varanasi
Varanasi, often described as a microcosm of India’s diversity, is the perfect home for this initiative. Its timeless streets have witnessed centuries of interfaith harmony and cultural exchanges. Similarly, Mirza Ghalib, celebrated for his syncretic vision, represented a bridge between traditions, languages, and communities. By naming the club after Ghalib, Kabeer emphasizes a commitment to unity and inclusivity.
Ghalib once described Banaras as a “paradise on earth,” marveling at its beauty and spirituality. In this spirit, the club seeks to create a sanctuary where diversity thrives, and barriers dissolve.
A Family Legacy of Sacrifice and Vision
Kabeer’s inspiration is deeply rooted in his family’s history. His great-great-grandfather, Shanti Kumar Singh, was a Gandhian freedom fighter who, along with his family, endured imprisonment and loss during the 1857 Rebellion. Despite these hardships, their dedication to justice and equality remains a guiding force.
Motivated by the teachings of Lord Buddha, Kabeer believes in the transformative power of compassion:
“Hate never yet dispelled hate. Only love dispels hate.”
(Dhammapada 3-5)
This philosophy inspires the creation of spaces where youth from diverse backgrounds can thrive together, fostering mutual respect and resilience.
Launching on International Human Rights Day
The launch event, timed with International Human Rights Day, highlights the alignment of sports with the broader framework of human rights and social justice. The Mirza Ghalib Global Center for Pluralism and Diversity serves as a fitting venue, symbolizing harmony and inclusivity.
This day also serves as a reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives to address societal challenges, emphasizing that sportspersonship can transcend individual goals and foster collective progress.
Promoting Sportspersonship and Accessibility
The Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club seeks to redefine sportspersonship by bridging the gap between privilege and opportunity. It offers free access to snooker facilities for marginalized and lower-middle-class youth, fostering discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
In collaboration with partners like Jan Mitra Nyas, PVCHR, the Kashi Center for Viksit Bharat, and the Mirza Ghalib Literature Club, the club integrates sports into the lives of underserved communities. Contributions like the Sharma S-1 snooker table ensure that members enjoy state-of-the-art facilities.
These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to addressing challenges such as stress, depression, and social isolation through the unifying power of sports.
Celebrating a Tribute to Ghalib’s Vision
Ghalib’s portrayal of Banaras as a land of divine beauty and inclusivity resonates with the club’s mission. This tribute to Ghalib is a call to embrace his vision of harmony, where diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated. The timeless city of Varanasi adds depth to this initiative, serving as a cultural and spiritual beacon.
Toward a Healthier, Inclusive Future
The Mirza Ghalib Snooker Club is more than a recreational facility. It is a platform for empowering youth, promoting diversity, and cultivating a spirit of inclusivity. By integrating sports into the broader context of human rights, the club represents a transformative approach to building a just and equitable society.
As it opens its doors, the club stands as a testament to the enduring values of Ghalib, Varanasi, and the vision of Kabeer Karunik. It underscores that sports can be a medium for love, unity, and social transformation, creating a healthier and happier future for all.