The younger daughter of legendary film actor, Rajinikanth, Soundarya Rajinikanth is a film graphic designer, Producer & Director who has already made quite a contribution to the Tamil Film industry. This time though, Suhail Chandhok caught up with her about one of her first loves…the glorious game of Golf!
Where or how did your love for Golf begin, given your family’s involvement in Film & the Arts?
My love for golf developed initially out of watching the game on TV. When everyone around me felt it was an “old mans game” or a “slow” game, I actually found it extremely interesting!
You took to the game at a time when it wasn’t as popular as it is today in India, what drew you to the game of Golf?
It was about 15 years ago actually. I wouldn’t say it wasn’t popular at all then; when I did go into coaching in Chennai there were quite a few others around my age there. My parents encouraged me a lot in fact and we had regular tournaments that the clubs arranged which encouraged people to better their game and play more as well.
How did your family react to you taking up Golf when even your sister was learning dance? Was there anyone else in the family at the time that played the sport & influenced you?
No one played golf in my family or the entire Tamil film industry back then. My family encouraged me though and my father bought me my first golf kit when we were traveling in London. This was a kit I literally just picked because I liked the colour (smiles sheepishly)! It was clearly when I didn’t know much about the technicality and importance of good clubs for a good swing and game. I will forever keep that kit with me though!!!
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Did you ever consider a career in golf or going Pro? What were the obstacles you faced?
Yes indeed I considered it quite seriously. The fact that I would have to shift base was the only obstacle for my mother (smiles)! I even spent 3 months at a stretch in Singapore coaching under a professional there with that very aim. It was a wonderful experience and I definitely learnt a lot.
Studies show that women take up for reasons ranging from general well-being & fitness to the challenge of the sport itself but also the social interactions with others – what aspect related to you most?
Any game or sport as a matter of fact, gives us lots of interactions with people with similar interests. Golf in particular isn’t as easy as it looks, and that’s what people underestimate. Not only does it require lots of stamina to walk the 18 holes, but the mind control required is tremendous and a great challenge, given that its actually a game one plays with themselves!
What are some of your favorite Golfing destinations and courses? Abroad and in India…
I love the Singapore golf courses. They are maintained beautifully and are extremely challenging too. I also studied in Perth, Western Australia where the golf courses are absolutely beautiful. In India I love playing in Bangalore. It’s also the weather that plays a major part in how plush the greens are…and of course, Kodaikanal!!!
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You have moved into the world of Films yourself now & are a mother too, do you miss being out on the course & do you still get to fit in a few rounds?
I haven’t been playing regularly the past few years and now with my full time mommy job it is a bit more difficult. But I do intend getting back on the course and getting some good golf action soon.
What are the biggest challenges for women golfer in India in your mind?
Man or woman, the biggest minus with golf is the affordability for many. Golf is an expensive game whether we take into account the green fee or the clubs, balls and the accessories. That can be a reason many choose not to pursue it.
Finally, awareness for the game has risen rapidly in India, but how do you think we can encourage more young women to take up the sport and not be hesitant that it’s a men’s game?
Schools should honestly start to encourage different sports. Golf camps should be conducted more in the city. Golf can be learnt at a very young age and this should happen. The misconception that it is a slow game has to go only and will go only by trying the sport. Interactive golf events around the country should be planned as well. If we have one or two Indian women players making a global mark, that will make a huge difference to the game in India for women. Hopefully this will happen soon!
