The IPLs are upon us - yes, neither of the two IPLs can wait. We are talking about Cricket and Elections - Indian Premier League and Indian Politicians' League.
Tamashas they are, there is no doubt; great entertainment for a billion plus. Billions of rupees at stake in both. The beneficiaries and benefactors may differ in each, but finally it is you and I who are funding these mega shows, in some form or the other. While political parties will 'rob Krishnamurthy to pay Ramaswamy', Lalit Modi & co. will 'rob Chinnaswamy or Sadiq or Peter or to pay Stephen or….'.
We are totally against 'either or' arguments. We believe both can happen and both should. Both events, as big as they are, will fuel the economy. Both events will fan the passions of a billion people through the antics of a few on stage - be it cricket or politics. The 2 leagues are played in contrasting styles, though. While one gets paid to play in IPL (cricket) and spectators pay to participate, watch the game, to play in the other IPL, players have to cough up monies, which are by no means small change. The other refreshing change, for the public is the fact that they are paid/pampered to participate and they are the heroes, not the players.
I would welcome the unfolding scenario with both arms (with more, if possible).
I will be paid to participate in one IPL and I can use this to pay for the other IPL. What a trade! It can't get better than this? Did anyone say you can't have the cake and eat it too?
Is there any twist in the tale? Well, the show spoiler, 'will make life miserable' factor is the terror threat to either or both events. There is a very simple, effective 100% guaranteed solution. The solution is two words - CHEER LEADERS!
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Crises give rise to innovations; out of the box thinking. Here we go - recruit pretty young girls in millions and ask them to gyrate all across the country 24*7, particularly at strategic entry and exit points, at airports, railway stations, crowded markets and of course at all the cricket venues, the Hotels. We are sure no terrorist will disrupt this free entertainment and we will have peace. Om Shanthi Om!
The elections will be more colorful, our daily lives will be full of joy de vivre, millions of girls will make money, economy will grow, no terror attacks, IPL cricket in full swing, seam and spin, the other IPL making merry…………………..
L.Ravichandran
ravi@chennaionline.com