The ‘FNCC-Pullela Gopichand Badminton League’ (FNCC-PGBL), organized by the Film Nagar Cultural Center (FNCC) in collaboration with the academy of legendary coach Pullela Gopichand, has infused great enthusiasm among athletes. This prestigious league, which commenced on April 4th, was held grandly every Saturday and Sunday at the Film Nagar Club. Top-10 male and female players from across the country participated, showcasing their skills. Attended by Tollywood celebrities and sports icons, the tournament captivated badminton enthusiasts. Six teams competed in the league, each entering with an entry fee of ₹10 lakhs. Prizes were distributed to the winners during a grand event held at FNCC on Tuesday evening.
Key figures involved in the program included FNCC President K.S. Rama Rao, Secretary Tummala Rangarao, Vice President S.N. Reddy, Joint Secretary K. Sadashiva Reddy, Treasurer Shailaja Jujala, and committee members Edida Raja, Krishnam Raju (Venu), Varaprasadam Rao, Sports Convener Koganti Bhavani, former FNCC Vice President and Badminton Chairman Purushottama Rao, and Telangana Badminton Association Vice President V. Chamundeswarinath. Pullela Gopichand and Nikhat Zareen attended as chief guests.
K.S. Rama Rao (President, FNCC):
The hard work put in by Gopichand and Chamundeswarinath is truly great. Former Vice President and Badminton Chairman Purushottam made this league possible. Special thanks to Kaja Suryanarayana Rao. Team owners arranged four teams—Ravi garu, Vayuputra Somaraju garu, Govardhan Reddy garu, and friends—while FNCC took one team. In the future, there is scope for 6 to 10 teams, and we have requested Gopichand garu regarding this. We plan to live-telecast the next tournament and hope media channels encourage us by allocating time. I thank the entire FNCC team for their support. Many children participated, and I promise to make it even better next year.
Purushottama Rao (Badminton Chairman & Sponsor):
I initiated this event, but its success is due to the cooperation of Chamundeswarinath, Gopichand, and Somaraju. I have been playing badminton since I moved to Hyderabad. My goal was to elevate the reputation of Film Nagar Club to a national level through this initiative.
I.V. Somaraju:
K.S. Rama Rao garu organized a similar program back in 1997. We have a long-standing relationship with Gopichand garu. I request him to provide admissions for 4-5 students in his academy every year if the Film Nagar Committee requests.
Pullela Gopichand:
FNCC has always supported our association. When Chamundeswarinath called to suggest a national-level league, we prepared teams within two days. We shouldn’t just celebrate when someone like Messi plays; we should celebrate and encourage our own children playing here. I thank FNCC for giving me the chance to watch these domestic matches. It is wonderful to have Nikhat Zareen here. I remember being encouraged when I played in Vuyyuru at age 13; every player needs that kind of support.
V. Chamundeswarinath:
“K.S. Rama Rao garu provided the teams at a very low cost this time. Next year, the entry fee per team will be ₹25 lakhs. Along with Gopichand’s support, we will personally select the teams for the next season.
Nikhat Zareen (Chief Guest & Indian Boxer):
Congratulations to all the winners. This is the first time I’ve watched badminton live, and it’s amazing to see young children playing so well. I hope FNCC conducts boxing tournaments in the future as well, as there are many talented boxers in Telangana.
Kaja Suryanarayana:
A good committee is the backbone of any successful organization. Under K.S. Rama Rao’s leadership, we have excelled in cultural activities, and now we have the confidence to excel in sports as well. This was made possible by the sponsorship of Purushottama Rao.
Tournament Results:
Champions: Vayuputra Tigers
Runners-up: Elegance Eagles
Third Place: Porus Panthers
Fourth Place: FNCC Lions
The prizes were presented by Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen and other dignitaries. The event, hosted by Treasurer Shailaja, concluded on a high and exciting note.
