Need more such tournaments for girls, says actor and proud dad Dibyendu Bhattacharya

Actor Dibyendu Bhattacharya with daughter Norah

A familiar face from the silver screen was excitedly cheering from the sidelines every time AVM (Juhu) were in action at the mid-day Ranis of Rink 2024. And when the team finally prevailed, Bollywood actor Dibyendu Bhattacharya couldn't hold back his emotions, punching the air in celebration. His daughter Norah, a promising striker, was part of the victorious Juhu outfit.

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"I love football and have been going to the Kolkata Derby [Mohun Bagan v East Bengal] for many years. I support East Bengal FC and was recently made the club's Honorary Vice-President. Norah recently represented the state in a national-level tournament organised by the National Competition of School Games Federation of India in Ranchi. I do whatever I can to support her," said Bhattarcharya, who has acted in films like Dev D, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal, Section 375 among others. He has also played prominent roles in OTT shows Mirzapur, Selection Day and Rocket Boys.

"It's very encouraging to see women's football being promoted because I believe the sport should grow equally. And for this we need more tournaments like Ranis of Rink," added Bhattacharya, as he headed off to pose for pictures with his daughter, even proudly wearing her gold medal around his neck.