Neeraj Chopra explains why Bengaluru is the best venue to host India's first international javelin meet

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India's Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, is all set to give back to the sport in a way few athletes ever have. On May 24, Bengaluru's iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium will play host to the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic - India's first international javelin meet, and a landmark moment for Indian athletics.

More than just a competition, Neeraj sees the event as a movement that could reshape how India perceives track and field. "Our people have mostly seen world-class athletes on television. Now, they'll witness them live. That feeling -- watching them in action from the stands -- is something else," he said, brimming with pride during a virtual press interaction.

The meet is a joint initiative by Neeraj and JSW Sports, in association with the Athletics Federation of India and World Athletics. It is also a World Athletics Category A event and a qualifier for the World Championships - the first of its kind on Indian soil.

For Neeraj, the dream has been years in the making. "Back when I was competing abroad with big names, I often wondered -- why can't we have something like this in India too? That thought always stayed with me," he revealed. "Now it's happening. And not just once -- this will become an annual affair."

As for naming the meet after himself, Neeraj was candid. "In Europe, these meets are often named after athletes who've made a mark. That's where the idea came from. This is not about ego - it's about building tradition."

The move to Bengaluru, originally unplanned, turned out to be a blessing. Panchkula was the initial venue, but the lighting there wasn't suitable for global broadcast standards. "We needed high-lux floodlights for live telecast, and Bengaluru was better equipped. Plus, the evening weather here -- it's perfect for athletics. I'm confident the fans will enjoy both the action and the atmosphere."

Among the international stars set to light up the meet are Grenada's Anderson Peters, Kenya's Julius Yego, Germany's Thomas Roehler, and world leader Curtis Thompson from the USA. Neeraj also hinted at the possible participation of Pakistan's Olympic medallist Arshad Nadeem, saying he was in touch with him and awaiting confirmation.

On the Indian front, Neeraj is determined that this platform benefits local athletes too. "This is not just about javelin. It's about giving Indian athletes an international stage at home - to feel the pressure, the energy, the atmosphere. Winning medals feels great, but giving back through this event is just as fulfilling."

From pricing tickets affordably to ensuring top-notch fan experience, Neeraj and his team at JSW Sports are leaving no stone unturned. Balancing the demands of organising with his own training has been tough, he admitted, but worthwhile. "It's a challenge stepping out of the comfort zone, but this meet is close to my heart. I request everyone - come, be part of it, make it a success."

With Neeraj leading from the front, Bengaluru may just witness a defining chapter in Indian athletics history.