Agartala, July 19:
As excitement builds ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, football fever in Tripura has extended beyond the game, with a striking sand sculpture carrying a social message and Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha highlighting the life lessons the sport imparts.
At the Howrah Riverfront in Agartala, noted freelance sand artist Krishna Dey unveiled a FIFA World Cup-themed sand sculpture urging youngsters to choose sports over excessive mobile phone use and addiction.
The artwork, displayed at the Battala Riverfront Park, drew large crowds of football enthusiasts and visitors ahead of Sunday’s title clash.
A 2014 graduate of the Government College of Art and Craft, Tripura, Dey said the sculpture was created to harness the global appeal of football to inspire the younger generation to spend more time on playgrounds instead of remaining glued to mobile games.
“Today’s youth are increasingly getting involved in mobile gaming and various forms of addiction. Through this sand sculpture, I want to encourage them to leave their mobile phones, go to the playground and actively participate in sports. Games not only keep us physically fit but also improve mental well-being,” he said.
The artist said he hoped the World Cup-themed installation would motivate young people to reconnect with outdoor sports and adopt healthier lifestyles, demonstrating how public art can effectively promote social awareness alongside major sporting events.
Echoing the spirit of the occasion, Chief Minister Manik Saha said he would not support any particular side in the FIFA World Cup final, asserting that the team playing better football deserves to emerge champion.
“We are all waiting for the match to begin. It will be played at night, and I’m sure everyone will watch it. I won’t support any particular team. Whoever plays better should win,” Saha said.
Describing football as a game that extends beyond the field, the Chief Minister said it teaches valuable lessons applicable to everyday life.
“Football teaches us many things. It offers important lessons for life and how we move forward in different situations,” he said.
Recalling the enthusiastic public screening of the previous World Cup final at Agartala’s Astabal Ground, Saha indicated that similar celebrations could take place this year as football fans across the state prepare to witness the high-voltage contest between reigning European champions Spain and defending world champions Argentina.
With millions expected to tune in globally, the FIFA World Cup final has also become a platform in Tripura to promote sportsmanship, healthy lifestyles and youth engagement beyond the spectacle of the game.
