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Chuni Goswami (Photo credit: Twitter)
New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind and Lok Sabha President Om Birla condemned the death of legendary former Indian soccer captain Chuni Goswami, who died Thursday at a private hospital in the city of Calcutta. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called him a “true star”.
Speaking to Twitter, President Kovind said: “It is sad to hear about the death of Chuni Goswami. In his passing, football fans in India have lost a legend. A versatile athlete, he was a star in his own right. My condolences to his family, friends and admirers. “
Meanwhile, Birla said: “Saddened by the news of the passing of former ace soccer player and first-class cricket player #ChuniGoswami. His achievements in both sports will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace!”
Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju wrote on Twitter: “It is a sad day for Indian sports when the legendary footballer Chuni Goswami passes away. He was the most successful Indian soccer captain who led India to gold at the Asian Games in 1962 and many other victories. I express my condolences to the family. Om Shanti.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was the first to express her condolences. Calling Goswami a “true star,” he said, “He was one of the best players Indian football has ever seen. He was a versatile personality who brought many laurels to the country and Bengal.”
Goswami was the captain of the gold medal-winning team at the 1962 Asian Games and had also represented Bengal in first-class cricket. During the past few months, Goswami suffered from underlying ailments with sugar, prostate, and nerve problems. Goswami played 50 matches for India as a footballer from 1956 to 1964.
At 82, Goswami last breathed after suffering cardiac arrest. It only added to the sadness that has engulfed the country and the world at large with the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc and also the death of veteran actors Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor.
(With IANS tickets)
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