Volleyball dominates in Telangana villages, producing national players

In Telangana, volleyball has become more than just a sport. It has created a fierce rivalry between two nearby villages, Govindaraopet and Chalvai. Though the games started in the 1980s as casual activities, they have evolved into passionate competitions that captivate local audiences. Residents treat these matches with the same intensity as a national cricket showdown. The volleyball rivalry between the twin villages has flourished alongside cricket. Since the 1990s, these villages have consistently dominated local tournaments, drawing large crowds that create a festive atmosphere. This enthusiasm has inspired many young people to take volleyball seriously, leading to opportunities for education and government jobs. Over the past 30 years, more than 50 players from Govindaraopet and Chalvai have reached national levels in various competitions. They have won numerous medals and secured jobs in organizations like DRDO and the education department through sports quotas. Some players have even started their own businesses. Locals regard volleyball as vital to their culture, equal in importance to agriculture. Thummala Ramakrishna, a former national player from Govindaraopet, recalls how watching older students play motivated younger generations to get involved. The open ground in the village is often filled with teams eager to practice. B Bixapathi, a player from Chalvai, highlights how intense these matches can be. Friends and family become rivals during tournaments, and betting activities can escalate significantly, despite the modest prize money. Several notable players have emerged from these villages. Paladugu Venkateswara Rao, who played internationally for India, created a successful sportswear business after retiring. Kosari Krishna Prasad, another successful player, now serves as the head coach of the Indian women's volleyball team. M Krishna faced financial challenges but rose to become a national player at a young age and now works as a physical director in the education sector. Overall, volleyball has transformed the lives of many in these twin villages, providing joy and opportunities for a brighter future.