People of India and fans of this glorious game:
For many years I have lived a dream, that India could have a sports league that could be envied by the whole world. I dreamt that our national passion, cricket, would captivate fans all over the world. As we conclude the third edition of the IPL journey, I stand here tonight filled with joy and happiness of a dream realized. Though the events on the ground have been an outstanding success we have had some off-field unpleasant dramas based only on innuendos, half-truths and motivated leaks from all types of sources. I assure you all decisions have been jointly taken by the governing council and approved by the general body in both year one and two of the IPL. Still, as leader of the team, I reassure you that if there is any flouting of the rules and regulations or any other irregularities I shall take full responsibility.
On this occasion, I reassure you, that any bad actions or repercussions which take place are my responsibility. I reassure millions of passionate fans of the league and the game across the globe that IPL is clean and transparent. With your support and blessings we have attained worldwide recognition as one of the best sporting leagues ever. We should not allow this brand to be diluted but must emerge much stronger through this process of sublimation and be well. With the support of millions and millions of viewers and greatest icons of the game along with some of the most promising upcoming talent we shall carry this forward and not allow for you an image to be diminished. As the Zen proverb says, ‘The obstacle is our path.’
The IPL has faced many challenges this season. It has not been an easy journey. However, we have met these challenges face on and not once has the team buckled under the pressure. I would like to thank my incredible team, led by Sundar Raman, and our partners, for the many thousands of work hours and unwavering support and professionalism that they have shown. Thank you also to all the teams, players, media partners, sponsors, BCCI members, IPL governing council members, the government of all states in executing this. All have played a huge part in making the IPL what it is today.
Many a thing has been said in these last few weeks about the IPL but am here as the humble servant of the game and to administer it to the best of my ability. As the Bhagvad Gita says, ‘Fear not what is not real, never was and never will be. What is real, always was and cannot be destroyed.’
All I wanted was to leave a small footprint in this glorious history of this game. I thank my family, my children who have stood by me through this trying time all these years and continued to stay with me. I take strength from them. My final thank you is to you the fan, all over the world, we missed you last year in India and it is wonderful to be back home.
It is your passion and this is the reason we built the IPL. Your passion that has sustained us and your passion that enriches us. This is not just the Indian Premier League, it is the Indian People’s League. I humbly dedicate my dream to all the fans of this wonderful country.
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By late evening, Mr Modi was back on his Twitter page to say:
- Had a restful day. Been in the spa all day. Much needed rest
- Thank you all for your message of support. It is really appreciated. I am still chairman of IPL. Just suspended. Wait - we have just begun.
