Novy Kapadia, The Voice and Encyclopedia of Indian Football, Passes Away At 67

– Archan Mitter | 18 Nov 2021

Renowned commentator, a distinguished journalist and football pundit, Novy Kapadia has passed away at 67 due to prolonged sickness. The former Delhi university professor was confined to a wheelchair for the past two years due to motor neuron illness.

Kapadia, founder of Ashoka Club, was an active participant in 9 world cups and other sports majors like the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and many others, his expertise and data on Indian football is reflected on seminal books such as ‘Barefoot to Boots, The Many Lives of Indian Football’ (also known as the Football Encyclopedia) and a book he published in 2014 called The Football Fanatics Essentials Guide Book.

To honor his lifelong passionate contribution to Indian football, the All India Football Federation tweeted,

“We are saddened by the passing away of renowned journalist, commentator and football pundit Novy Kapadia. May his contribution shine through to all those he has touched through his coverage of Indian football.”

The National Football team as well as stalwart clubs like ATK Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC, SC East Bengal expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to Kapadia.

This is considered to be a giant loss to Indian football all across the country.