Chennai: “This is amazing. So you are P T Usha, a journalist and I am P T Usha, an athlete. Cool.” This was the reaction of the “Queen of Indian track and field”, when I introduced myself as a Reporter from News Today.
She was in the the city yesterday to launch a marathon and was happy to know that both of us share not just the name, but even the initials.
In a chat with Paramasivam Thirunavukkarasu Usha, Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, said, “I am happy that today’s parents are being supportive to their children, especially when it comes to sports and other extra curricular activities.”
“From where did this fighting spirit came from? Who is your inspiration?” When I asked this, she gave a pat and said, “Not giving up is one attitude that born with me. Moreover, the boost from my coaches made me move forward.”
Asked about how women athletes are doing, she said, “In the last two decades, the government is focussing more on sports sector. Also, women always rock in athletics. We have got a huge bunch of talented athletes who will go places.”
A biopic is being made on Usha and buzz is that A R Rahman will compose music for it. Asked about it, she said, “Though I can’t reveal much details, all I can say is the movie is getting ready in a full-fledged manner. I am sure it will rock the theatres. With half of the process already done, the film can be expected to be released soon.”
On the marathon conducted by Little Millennium, a playschool group, she said, “running for a cause, that too at this young age, will bring in much awareness to the little ones and their parents.”
Talking about the run against child abuse, which took place in the city today, Little Millenium CEO Raman Bajaj said, “More than teaching children about child abuse and other physical violences against them, we thought they should practically fight against it. Also, children learn highly through movement rather than being inside the classroom. This is the sole reason why we organised this run against child abuse.”