Chasing the shuttle

I have been playing badminton since my school days. Over the years, it has repeatedly offered me a much-needed escape from stress. I often joke that my address is G104 (my office at ICTS) until 6 PM, and the Sports Complex thereafter.

During my college years, I suffered a shoulder dislocation that forced me to step away from the game for a long time. While I could not play, I stayed connected to the sport by serving as a referee on several occasions—most notably during the inter-hostel badminton tournament at Ramjas Hostel.

Although my injury never fully healed, I have learned to be careful, avoiding shots that might aggravate the shoulder or cause further damage. I resumed playing during my master’s studies, frequenting the badminton courts at Jubilee Hall (where I stayed) and Gwyer Hall. Occasionally, I would also play at the University Stadium with Nishant, Nitin, Rishabh, and others.

After joining ICTS, I became a regular player once again. Anup, Mukesh, Ankur, Harshit, Soummydip, and Ankush have been my constant partners on the court, and over time, many others joined what gradually became our badminton gang.

The Sports Committee at ICTS regularly organises badminton tournaments, creating a vibrant sporting culture on campus. I have been fortunate to contribute to some of these events as an organiser, and to participate as a player in others. In 2024, I was especially happy to win two titles—Men’s Doubles (with Anup) and Mixed Doubles (with Sweety). In 2025, I also led a contingent of players to IISc; although we were eliminated in the first round, the experience was a valuable one.

Glimpse from my first tournament at ICTS (2022). Courtesy: ICTS Sports Committee.

Winners (Sweety and me) and runners-up (Aiswarya and Kaustubh) of the badminton mixed doubles (2024)

More than the wins and losses, however, these tournaments remind me why badminton has remained such a constant in my life. Through injuries, breaks, and relocations, the sport has given me companionship, routine, and a sense of belonging. Long after the scores are forgotten, it is the shared rallies, post-game conversations, and friendships built on the court that continue to matter the most. 🏸