08-Apr-2009 117
It was a sad end of a legendary sportsperson of Orissa.
He was the first male athlete from the state to have represented the country in the first Asian Games. And he breathed his last with his distinction intact but without any reward or recognition.
Seikh Gulzar, one of all-time great sportspersons of Orissa, passed away at his Jadupur residence in Bhubaneswar today. He was believed to be 80 and is survived by his wife, five sons and a daughter.
A long-distance runner, Gulzar represented the country in the first Asian Games at New Delhi in 1951. He missed a bronze medal in the 10,000 metre event by finishing fourth.
Gulzar shot into prominence by winning the 10,000 metre gold in the 1950 All-India Police Sports Meet at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. This performance helped him find a place in the Indian athletics squad for the New Delhi Asiad.
He served in the State Police Department as driver before quitting in 1963. A self-respecting sportperson, Gulzar never demanded any reward or recognition for his achievements in sports.
Instead, he continued to earn his living by working as bus driver in Orissa State Road Transport Corporation even in old age.
According to officials of the State Directorate of Sports, Gulzar was getting a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 from the Sports Department. But the veteran athlete’s family denied receiving any such assistance.
He also did not receive any help from Orissa Olympic Association and Orissa Athletic Association.
After life full of struggle, Gulzar was suffering from several ailments for a couple of years. Even after he breathed his last, no VIP came to his house to pay respect to the athletic great of the state.
