India's golden boy and Olympic javelin gold medalist, Neeraj Chopra, is set to headline a high-octane international javelin meet this May in Bengaluru. The single-day athletic gathering organized by JSW Sports under the Neeraj Chopra name promises to gather major javelin throwers from around the world in what would become a landmark achievement for Indian athletics.

During a news interview on April 21, Neeraj extended official invitations to major javelin throwers, including his Pakistani friend Arshad Nadeem. The strong bond between Chopra and Nadeem has always fascinated spectators, and his invitation shows a meaningful effort to develop international sportsmanship.

“Yes, I have spoken to Arshad Nadeem," Neeraj told reporters on Monday. “He said he would discuss it with his coach and confirm. But as of now, he hasn't confirmed. Once the athletes confirm, I'll be able to share the final list. Every top athlete has been invited, and Arshad has also been invited. (If he competes), it will involve the government, so once everything is confirmed, we will know the final list.”

While Arshad’s participation might face complications owing to diplomatic and logistical challenges between India and Pakistan, the hope remains that both sporting and political authorities will make it possible for the friendly rivals to compete on Indian soil.

The sports competition will include the best javelin players, like Anderson Peters, who has two world championships and Olympic bronze to his credit; Thomas Rohler, with Olympic gold; Yulius Yego, who has Olympic medals and world championships; and Curtis Thompson, an active team leader from the USA. This sports competition will be one of the most prestigious tournaments in the country throughout the year because of the participation of many world and European sporting stars.

As per Neeraj, there will be three or four top-level Indian javelin athletes in the tournament, including Rohit Yadav, who represents emerging talent in the competition. These great athletes are providing spectators with a competitive tournament that will surely showcase high-level athletic performance.

Curiously, the tournament was originally slated to be conducted in Neeraj's native state of Haryana at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula. But for technical reasons, the venue was changed to Bengaluru. Justifying the move, Neeraj said, “The stadium in Haryana does not have adequate lighting required for the broadcasting. It was 600 lux (in Tau Devi Lal Stadium), but we needed more. There was not enough time to get it fixed on time.”

The new stadium, Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, has improved facilities and infrastructure to host a high-profile, television-covered international event. Neeraj said the change of location followed positive talks with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. “I only spoke to the media after receiving positive confirmation from the Karnataka CM,” Neeraj added, indicating the important role state support is playing in making this mega-event happen.

India plans to stage this highly expected athletic competition, and everyone is watching to see if Arshad Nadeem will receive authorization to compete. His participation would represent both a historical achievement in Indian athletics and progress in regional sports diplomatic relations. The upcoming competition will serve as a major celebration where global athletes unite for athletic competitions and competitive spirit.