7 May, 2009 - Diehard football fans worldwide pray for their team to win. In Bhutan, they are literally seeking the support of the omnipotent
A group of Thimphu businessmen were seen yesterday driving to Dechenphug monastery to pray to Gyenyen Jakpa Milen, the protecting deity of Bhutan. They are staunch supporters of the English club, Chelsea, which is going to play Spanish football giants, Barcelona FC, in the second semi-finals of the popular UEFA championship league in London, England.
“We always believe that our wishes come true when we pray to Ap Gyenyen, so we decided to go,” said one of the businessmen, whose shop is decorated with Chelsea posters.
It may sound selfish, but a fan said he went to pray that Lionel Messi (Argentine striker for Barcelona FC) would damage his leg before the game. “It may sound insane, but it worked in the past,” he said.
Meanwhile, Thimphu has a huge fan following for the ongoing UEFA champion’s league. Last evening, in offices, bets were placed and plans made to stay awake beyond midnight to watch the game at home or in a bar.
Chelsea or Barcelona will face another English club, Manchester United, in the finals of the league in Rome on May 27.
By Phuentsho Wangdi
