Indian athletes have frequently expressed concerns about food and a lack of a homely atmosphere during multisport events like the Olympics, Asian Games, or CWG. Instances include the food-related issues raised by the nation's contingent during the Youth Olympics in 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as well as the two Asiads in Incheon (2014) and Jakarta (2018).
The upcoming Paris Olympics, slated from 26 July to 11 August, might offer Indian athletes a reason for optimism.
As per media reports, in an unprecedented move, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), under the leadership of athlete P T Usha, has decided to establish the inaugural 'India House' at the Paris Games. This pavilion will not only showcase the nation's rich cultural heritage but also feature yoga sessions, medal celebrations, opportunities for fans to meet Indian athletes, and multi-cuisine Indian restaurants.
Numerous countries participating in the Olympics traditionally establish their own hospitality houses, but this marks India's inaugural endeavour to showcase its culture and heritage in this manner. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the IOA and the Reliance Foundation, the primary partner of the nation's National Olympic Committee (NOC), responsible for constructing the India House.
This hospitality centre will occupy a 40,000 square feet space near the Games Village, serving as a 'home away from home' for Indian athletes and their families. It's been revealed that a dedicated section within India House will commemorate the country's 100-year journey at the Olympics.
Previously, the JSW Group had announced plans to establish the first-ever India 'Hospitality House' at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, intended to be located in Tokyo's Ariake region. However, this idea was abandoned as the entire Games were conducted within a bio-bubble due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
P T Usha, President, IOA mentioned, “When we were in Paris last month, we did have an opportunity to go and have a look at the place where the India House is being set up. It’s basically a facility which is not only meant for athletes but also for the Indian diaspora and fans to visit and enjoy the direct feed of matches involving Indian athletes. A lot of cultural activities have been planned where we will showcase India’s tourism, progress made in digitalisation and cultural activities. There will be a dedicated Indian food section for the country’s athletes and travelling Indian fans and media persons. Two restaurants will be set up which will serve food dishes from North and South India.”
“There will be yoga sessions every morning for the locals to attend. India House will be surrounded by other country-specific hospitality houses from France, Canada and the Netherlands. We have also planned to showcase mallakhamb sport to the locals, which was a demo sport at the first-ever Olympic Games in 1904,” Usha added.
The inauguration of the facility is scheduled for 28 July, following the opening ceremony on 26 July. There are indications that the name of India House might undergo a change to imbue it with a more traditional essence.
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