On March 22, at Mumbai’s MCA Cricket Stadium, a unique T20 cricket match was organized as part of the TB Mukt Bharat initiative, spearheaded by BJP MP Anurag Singh Thakur. This event punctuated the national aspiration to achieve a tuberculosis-free India, drawing notable figures from politics and Bollywood into the spotlight of advocacy, with Arjun Kapoor‘s participation keenly observed by all.
As stars aligned for this noble cause, Arjun Kapoor, known for his compelling performances, joined hands in this vibrant display of sportsmanship. He humorously commented on fellow participant, Yusuf Pathan’s impressive cricket skills, saying, “It feels good to see him hit the ball out of the stadium, but it’s bad as it’s against my team.” The ‘2 States’ actor further emphasized, “Entertainment, politics, and sports are the pillars to get any kind of message across. So, it feels great that all of us can come together for such an important medical cause.”
Expanding on the campaign’s importance, actor Arjun Rampal highlighted, “I think the initiative is great, you know, a TB-mukh Bharat is very, very important. It’s a very important initiative by the Prime Minister.” This sentiment resonated throughout the stadium, as MPs, actors, and sports enthusiasts united under the shared goal of expanding TB awareness and working towards eradication.
The friendly match, where Leaders XI, led by Anurag Thakur, faced off against Actors XI captained by Suniel Shetty, showcased more than just cricketing finesse. It was a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in addressing healthcare challenges. With Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and icons like Salman Khan in attendance, the event drew significant attention both on and off the pitch.
Actor Rajpal Yadav echoed the sentiment of health and fitness being synonymous with a disease-free life, stating, “It is a great cause with a great mindset to achieve a TB-free India. In order to be disease-free, fitness is extremely important. Sports is a very effective method to stay fit.” Indeed, the fusion of entertainment, cricket, and politics demonstrated how interconnected these fields can mobilize efforts against TB.
Dino Morea, reflecting on the collaborative essence of the event, remarked, “The three most beloved fields in the country- entertainment, cricket, and politics have come together to support the initiative to eradicate TB from the country. TB is a very serious illness and if we are able to send a message through this match to eradicate this disease from the country, it would be a great initiative.”
As the excitement of the match unfolded, it became clear that beyond the competitive spirit, the underlying ambition was to bridge gaps, raise awareness, and catalyze action towards a healthier nation. The success of such events lies not just in the gathering of celebrities but in the ripple effects of heightened awareness and proactive steps against tuberculosis. With stalwarts like Arjun Kapoor backing the cause, the hope is that India will edge closer to the dream of a TB-free future, resonating strongly with millions across the nation.
