Net Flicks: Chronicle of rare stories on Indian Badminton stars

Vijay has reported on cricket for The Hindu and Sportstar for four decades and is considered an authority. Akshay, a science graduate, has contributed to various publications and recently contributed exclusive interviews with Kapil Dev, Yuvraj Singh, Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, and Kartik Murali to Midday

Hydebadad: Well-known cricket writer Vijay Lokapally and his son Akshay Lokapally have come together to chronicle rare stories on some of the forgotten stars of Indian badminton. Published by Bloomsbury India and titled Net Flicks, the book features a message by Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, a Foreword by the legendary Pullela Gopi Chand, and advance praise from Amia Ghia, Dinesh Khanna, and veteran badminton writer S. Thyagarajan.

‘Net Flicks’ chronicles the journey of Indian badminton, from legends like Nandu Natekar and Prakash Padukone to modern icons like P.V. Sindhu. The book has 24 chapters dedicated to players who served the game with distinction. The highlight is the chapter on Nandu Natekar, based on an interview with the authors at his home in Pune. The authors have managed to speak with Kanwal Thakar Singh, Manjusha Kanwar, Aparna Popat, and Madhumita Bisht, among others. Former national champion Ameeta Singh talks about her early days and life with Syed Modi and his loss.

There is a chapter on Hyderabad-based Syed Mohammed Arif, the badminton guru who has produced stars from the city like Pullela Gopi Chand, PV Sindhu, Jwala Gutta, and Saina Nehwal. The book also focuses on some forgotten stalwarts of the game from the 50s and 60s like Damayanti Tambay, Hufrish Nariman, a rebel of sorts, and Leroy D’Sa. The book explores the challenges of limited resources and international exposure, narrates historic victories, and celebrates the rise of badminton as a national passion.

Vijay Lokapally and his son Akshay Lokapally have co-authored the book with in-depth research and invaluable conversations with players. Vijay has reported on cricket for The Hindu and Sportstar for four decades and is considered an authority. Akshay, a science graduate, has contributed to various publications and recently contributed exclusive interviews with Kapil Dev, Yuvraj Singh, Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, and Kartik Murali to Midday.

Net Flicks, a first-time father-son combination for a book, is a must-read for sports lovers and casual readers alike!