A passion for the beautiful game

Kerala joined in Euro and Copa America celebrations but in a limited fashion this time

Keralites are known for their huge love for football. A large section of its population follows the European leagues religiously. But the culmination of it all that keeps the whole State in a frenzy is the major international tournaments such as the World Cup, Euro and Copa America. During these tournaments, it feels like most villages and households turn into an extension of the participating nations. At times, multiple nations will be present in a family, and the fan wars are intensely fought. Hoarding and banner wars during this period are well documented and even shared by the social media handles of certain international teams. Streets get decorated by the national flags of the favourite teams and the jerseys become style statements. But this time around, the situation was different when the first whistle went off in Euro and Copa America. As different parts of the State were under various stages of lockdown, the restrictions denied fans an opportunity to gather and celebrate. The pandemic had also weakened the financial capacity required to erect hoardings and hold celebrations.