The state of Odisha has renamed its top sports award after former chief minister and father of the current CM, Biju Patnaik, causing controversy among opposition parties who view it as an attempt to politicize sports. This award, given out annually on National Sports Day, will now have three new categories and equal prize money for each recipient. However, opposition leader Arun Kumar Sahoo believes that Biju Patnaik's legacy and contribution to the state should not be reduced to a mere political ploy. In the midst of this development, Bollywood also faces criticism for trying to recreate a legendary film that cannot be replicated.
Odisha's Top Sports Award Renamed After Biju Patnaik Amidst Controversy
The state of Odisha has recently renamed its top sports award, the Odisha State Sports Award, after former chief minister and father of the current CM, Biju Patnaik. This move has sparked controversy among opposition parties who view it as an attempt to politicize sports.
Background
The Odisha State Sports Award was established in 1985 to recognize and honor outstanding sportspersons from the state. The award has three categories:
Each recipient receives a cash prize, a certificate, and a trophy.
Renaming Controversy
The decision to rename the award after Biju Patnaik has been met with criticism from opposition parties. They argue that Biju Patnaik's legacy and contribution to the state should not be reduced to a mere political ploy.
Arun Kumar Sahoo, the leader of the opposition, said, "Biju Patnaik was a great leader and we respect his contribution to the state. But we feel that the sports award should not be named after him. It should be named after a sportsperson who has made significant contributions to the field."
New Categories and Equal Prize Money
Along with the renaming, the state government has also added three new categories to the award:
Each category will have equal prize money, which has been increased from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2.5 lakh.
Bollywood Criticism
Amidst this controversy, Bollywood has also faced criticism for trying to recreate the legendary film, "Lagaan," for a new generation. The original film, released in 2001, is considered a classic and is known for its depiction of the struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Critics argue that the new film, titled "Maidaan," cannot replicate the magic of the original and that Bollywood should focus on creating new and original content instead of relying on remakes.
FAQs
Q: Why was the decision to rename the Odisha State Sports Award controversial? A: The decision was controversial because some opposition parties viewed it as an attempt to politicize sports and reduce the legacy of Biju Patnaik to a mere political ploy.
Q: What are the new categories added to the award? A: The new categories added are Lifetime Achievement Award, Para Sportsperson Award, and Team Sports Award.
Q: How much is the prize money for each recipient? A: Each recipient will receive a cash prize of Rs. 2.5 lakh.
Q: Has Bollywood's attempt to recreate "Lagaan" been criticized? A: Yes, critics have argued that the new film, "Maidaan," cannot replicate the magic of the original and that Bollywood should focus on creating new and original content instead of relying on remakes.
Q: When was the Odisha State Sports Award established? A: The award was established in 1985.
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