Discover the inspiring life story of Vijay Barse, a retired Indian professor, social worker, and founder of the impactful NGO, Slum Soccer. His journey from humble beginnings to international recognition is a testament to the power of dedication and social change.

Wiki/Biography & Journey to the Slum Soccer

Born in 1945 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Vijay Barse’s life took a transformative turn during a rainy afternoon in July 2001. While sheltering under a tree, he witnessed slum children playing football with a broken bucket. This simple scene sparked a profound realization: the game offered a positive outlet, keeping them away from harmful activities.

As a sports professor at Hislop College for 36 years, Barse understood the power of sport. He saw firsthand how football could inspire, educate, and provide a path away from negative influences such as drugs, crime, and violence. This experience, coupled with his own upbringing in underprivileged circumstances, fueled his desire to establish a foundation dedicated to helping underprivileged youth.

After retirement, using his retirement funds (Rs. 18 Lakhs), he purchased land near Nagpur. Together with his wife, Rachana, he established the Slum Soccer “Krida Vikas Sanstha Nagpur” (KSVN), a football academy and NGO that uses football to rehabilitate disadvantaged community members.

Physical Appearance

Here’s a glimpse into Vijay Barse’s physical attributes:

• Height (approx.): 5′ 10″
• Eye Colour: Dark Brown
• Hair Colour: Black

Family, Caste & Wife

Vijay Barse hails from a Hindu family. While details about his parents and siblings are limited, he’s happily married to Rachana Barse, also a professor. The couple has two sons: Priyesh Barse and Dr. Abhijit Barse, a social worker and entrepreneur.

Awards & Honours

Vijay Barse’s remarkable work has earned him numerous accolades:

• Reliance Real Hero Award (2012), presented by Sachin Tendulkar
• Nagbhushan Award (July 2019)

Facts/Trivia

Several interesting facts highlight Vijay Barse’s multifaceted contributions:

• His son, Abhijit, joined Slum Soccer in 2006 and became CEO in 2007.
• Beyond Slum Soccer, Vijay Barse has championed Indo-Pak peace through initiatives like motorcycle expeditions.
• He’s actively promoted environmental conservation through tree plantation drives.
• Abhijit appeared on Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate in 2014.
• Slum Soccer has received prestigious awards, including the FIFA Diversity Award and the FICCI India Sports Award.
• In 2020, a biopic titled “Jhund,” starring Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay Barse, was released.

Slum Soccer’s Growth

Slum Soccer’s impact has grown exponentially. It started with a small tournament in Nagpur, and now it’s a national and international force for good.