DMK Afzal: India’s forgotten football hero of 1962 Asian Games
Hyderabad: Once a legendary figure in Indian and Hyderabad football, Dost Mohammad Khan Afzal, popularly known as DMK Afzal, is now a forgotten figure struggling to make ends meet. His memory, once sharp, is now fading due to his advanced age.
The 80-year-old veteran footballer, who once dominated the field alongside India's greatest players, can barely recall the golden era of Indian football he helped create.
Afzal was a key member of the historic Indian team that clinched the gold medal at the 1962 Asian Games. The 1962 Asian Games was held in Jakarta, Indonesia. It was also the final tournament coached by the legendary SA Rahim.
The winning team featured some of Indian football’s greatest names, including PK Banerjee, Chuni Goswami, Tulasidas Balaram, Fortunato Franco, O. Chandrasekhar Menon, Arun Ghosh, goalkeeper Peter Thangaraj, and DMK Afzal. The Indian team’s remarkable journey, including victories over Japan (2-0) and South Korea (2-1) in the final, was depicted in the film ‘Maidaan’, starring Ajay Devgn as SA Rahim.
These victories, unimaginable in today's context, were significant given current rankings. India stands at 125th globally, while Japan and Korea rank 15th and 22nd respectively.
A breed apart
The players of the 1962 team were unmatched in skill, stamina, and teamwork. Afzal, a pivotal figure, contributed significantly to the team's success through his on-field prowess and leadership. Afzal's illustrious career also saw him shine for the iconic East Bengal football club in Kolkata.
Forgotten by the nation
Despite his contributions, the nation he once proudly served has forgotten him. The veteran’s achievements are erased from public memory. Victor Amalraj, a former captain of the Indian football team, who hails from Secunderabad, stated that Afzal's condition is so frail that he responds in mono syllables.
“It is disheartening to see a legend like him struggling. The former footballers are trying our best to help him,” said Amalraj.
GP Paulguna, Secretary, Telangana Football Association, said he will appeal to the Telangana Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy and the All India Football Federation for support and assistance for the beleaguered former star.