FIFA Is Over: Ends On A High Note

KOLKATA: Giant screens have been set-up in all parts of the city, late night community feasts are being organised and schools have declared Monday a holiday as football mania grips Kolkata ahead of the mouth-watering clash between Argentina and Germany in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final Sunday night at the famous Maracana Stadium in Brazil.

From ministers to celebrities to the hoi poloi - it seems Kolkata is divided between Argentina and Germany, as also between the two Ms - (Lionel) Messi and (Thomas) Muller.

If Argentina flags flutter from rooftops with Messi cutouts standing tall, German colours and Muller's portraits, too, adorn walls across Kolkata.

It is a million-dollar guess which finalist has more supporters. Argentina seem the hot favourite in Garia, Baranagar, and Gangulybagan while in localities like Kudghat, Jadavpur and Bansdroni, German fans outnumber those of the Latin American nation.

Madan Mitra, the middle-aged sports minister of West Bengal, admits he is partisan. "I shall watch the match on a giant screen along with my friends at Deshapriya Park. I have done the rounds of temples - Dakhineswar, Adyapith, for my team Argentina's victory".

But yet, one may find politics in that. The white and sky blue jersey of the La Albiceleste, as Argentines are known, resembles chief minister Mamata Banerjee's favourite colour band - blue and white.

Under Banerjee's instructions, the city's government buildings, new taxis, park railings, flyovers, bridges, have all been daubed in blue and white over the past two years.

Joked comedian Mir. "The way things are now in Kolkata, I won't be surprised if the government employees get a holiday on Monday in the event of an Argentina victory."
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