Winning gold for India at the 1962 Asian Games was the best moment of my life: I. Arumainayagam

XtraTime Web Desk: Former India football star Isaiah Arumoynayagam has been honoured with the prestigious Arjuna Award (Lifetime Achievement) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian football.

In an interview, the 84-year-old former footballer expressed his happiness and pride at receiving the prestigious honour. “I am very happy and extremely proud to receive this award,” he said.

Although age has affected his memory, Arumoynayagam still vividly remembers several important moments from his illustrious football career. He revealed that winning the gold medal with India at the 1962 Asian Games remains the proudest moment of his career. He also fondly recalled his glorious days playing for Mohun Bagan.

Arumoynayagam dedicated the Lifetime Achievement Award to his wife, family and grandchildren.

One of the fastest wingers of Indian football's golden era, Arumoynayagam played a key role in India's historic gold-medal triumph at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta.

After making his international debut in August 1962, he represented India in 18 matches and scored three goals. His international career also included India's runners-up finish at the 1964 AFC Asian Cup and a bronze medal at the 1966 Merdeka Tournament.

At the domestic level, Arumoynayagam enjoyed an equally impressive career. He represented Mohun Bagan from 1961 to 1968, scoring 56 goals for the club and playing an important role in several trophy-winning campaigns.

In recognition of his long and distinguished contribution to Indian football, he was awarded the prestigious Mohun Bagan Ratna in 2014.

Decades after his playing days, the Lifetime Achievement Arjuna Award stands as another fitting recognition of a footballer who played a significant role in one of the most glorious chapters of Indian football history.