Indian football coach used astrology to chose squad; sparks controversy

On Tuesday, when rumors that the Indian football squad was chosen based on advice from an astrologer surfaced, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) was shaken by fresh controversy. The Indian Express stated that the development happened last year, during the time of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.

According to the article, former AIFF secretary-general Kushal Das brought the Croatian to astrologer Bhupesh Sharma, who is located in Delhi-NCR, in May 2022.

The coach sent the astrologer a message, according to the information in the report, requesting him to “check charts for each player from the list for 11 June.”

The same was explained by Stimac to the astrologer two days prior to India’s 2-1 victory over Afghanistan in the game.

According to the article, the “list” Stimac was referring to comprised the names of the likely starters for the game versus Afghanistan.

Within hours, the astrologer responded to Stimac with the following messages: “Good” and “can do very well.” Each name is followed by the phrases “needs to avoid overconfidence,” “a below average day,” “a very good day for him but might get over aggressive,” and “not recommended for the day.”

The article further stated that in May and June 2022, the two exchanged close to 100 texts. India competed in four games during this time, including a friendly against Jordan and three Asian Cup qualifying games. Before each game, Stimac contacted Bhupesh.

Praful Patel, who was the president of AIFF then, told Indian Express he “was not aware or told” about the issue.

Das said that Bhupesh had already collaborated with Bollywood celebrities. To be really honest, Igor and I both fretted about India’s chances of qualifying for the Asian Cup at that time. It was not a pleasant circumstance. The qualification of India was, in my opinion, the most crucial factor. I thus informed him (Sharma) that I would connect you with the coach, and if he liked it and thought your services might be used, he may get in touch with me. They spent the entire time in Kolkata because Igor was so persuaded, according to Das, who was mentioned in the story. Das added that the astrologer received “about 12 to 15 lakh” in payment.

Astrology has a sway on Indian minds and Indian careers. We use astrology to see our future, the future of team India in Asia Cup, the future of upcoming General Elections etc. India’s tryst with astrology is a long one. Here are some famous celebrities who also believe in and use astrology.

• Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra, who is also well-known in Hollywood, is one of the most well-liked actresses in Bollywood. She does, however, have a little-known secret: she has a great belief in astrology. Chopra has stated that she has discussed important life decisions with astrologers. Even before she and Nick got married, she considered astrology. She believes that astrology may help you make better decisions and stay away from mistakes.

• Shah Rukh Khan

Before making his comments against intolerance, Shah Rukh Khan was involved in a scandal.  He was in trouble with Mumbai’s historical committees when he first purchased his now-iconic house for making changes to the building without following the proper procedures. Then Neeta Sinha suggested that he give his house a name that starts with “M.” The name change is intended to put an end to the domestic conflict that has been festering. Mannat, a popular selfie place in Mumbai, gained its name in this way.

• Vasundhara Raje

The devasthan department of the state government sprung into action and held mass prayers at temples, churches, and mosques after the BJP won the most recent assembly elections in Rajasthan. Vasundhara Raje, the chief minister of Rajasthan, is known to contact a number of astrologers, including Pandit Kedar Sharma, who is headquartered in Jaipur.

They had been close friends for almost 15 years. “When we first met, she was a minister in the federal administration. She came across as a strong believer in astrology and religion, and she still is, according to Sharma. Raje is also a disciple of the Tripura Sundari Maa in Rajasthan’s Banswara and the Peetambari Peeth in Madhya Pradesh’s Daatia region, according to those close to the chief minister.

• Smriti Irani

Smriti Irani asked the astrologer in Bhilwara various questions about her future during her four hours there.Smriti Irani, the minister for woman and child development, was informed by a Rajasthan-based astrologer that she will one day hold the office of President of India.

The 38-year-old politician was visiting Karoi hamlet in Bhilwara, Rajasthan, with her husband Zubin Irani when she encountered Pandit Nathulal Vyas. Before Irani was appointed a minister in the NDA administration, the same astrologer had prophesied a successful political career and a significant position for her.

Businessmen like Adani, Birla, Mittal and Ambani also use astrology to make wiser choices. Has this been the reason for Indian team’s glorious run in the recent matches?  

Please, also have a look into : Indian football coach Igor Stimac urges the PM and Sports Minister to let the Indian side participate in Asian games