A Lasting Legacy: The Salaam Baalak Football Project
For many years, Berlinger had the privilege of supporting the Salaam Baalak football project in Mumbai, an initiative that offered young people not only a place to play, but a place to grow.
As a company closely connected to the world of professional sport, we strongly believe in the power of sport as a positive force. Supporting this project was a natural extension of that belief and helped create opportunity, structure and encouragement where it can make a lasting difference.
Many of the children joined the programme at a very young age. Football became an anchor in their everyday lives, a source of joy, structure and belonging that stayed with them as they grew up.
Growing up with the game
What began on a football field developed into something much deeper. It created lasting friendships, shared experiences and the confidence to shape one’s own path.
From early childhood into adulthood, football remained a constant. Training sessions, guidance from coaches and the strength of the group created an environment where discipline, teamwork and self-belief could grow over time.
Many of the young men still meet today to play together as part of West Beach United, carrying forward a connection that started years ago.
Where different paths unfold
Each story shows how early encouragement can shape a life.
Ali came to Salaam Baalak as a preschool child. On the football field, he developed strength and discipline as a goalkeeper. Today, he works as an independent cinematographer in Mumbai and supports his family. He lives with his wife, children and mother, reflecting a journey from early guidance to creative independence.
Aakash and Rahul both joined Salaam Baalak as very young children. Rahul was only three years old at the time. Football was part of their upbringing and helped shape their resilience and sense of responsibility. Today, they have built stable lives, working in roles that require responsibility, reliability and physical endurance, while continuing to play football together on Sundays.
Sanjay was introduced to Salaam Baalak as a young boy and grew up with its support. Alongside football, he developed a strong creative drive. Today, he works as a photographer and a kickboxing trainer. Through dedication and consistency, he has built an independent life and supports himself through his work.
Sunny joined Salaam Baalak as a child and discovered his passion for sport early on. Today, he teaches boxing, kickboxing and martial arts almost every day. He has also shared his experience with younger children, passing on guidance and encouragement and continuing the cycle of support.
Deepak came to Salaam Baalak at the age of five. Football became one of the constants in his life from an early age. Today, he works and contributes to his family while continuing to play regularly with his longtime teammates. His journey highlights how strong these early connections remain over time.
The next generation of coaches
In the final phase, the programme focused on helping young players take the next step by turning their passion into leadership and opportunity.
Rahul Thorat discovered his passion for football as a teenager. Today, after completing his coaching certification, he works as an Assistant Coach while continuing his studies. His journey shows how experience gained on the field can evolve into guiding others.
Prathamesh Bhoir built a strong connection to football early on. Today, he works as a youth coach and contributes to his family while continuing his education in sports. He has successfully turned his passion into a profession
Ganesh Anthony discovered football at the age of 13. Today, he combines his studies with playing and coaching. Having obtained his D license, he already inspires younger players and is working towards the next level in his football journey.
Vinod Pal is gaining practical experience by coaching school children. Through football, he is building independence and developing a clear path for his future.
Ramzan Shaikh is taking his next steps towards coaching and preparing for assistant roles. With each step, he is building the confidence and experience needed to shape his future in football.
A legacy that continues
This project has now reached its final chapter. Yet its impact continues.
As a company rooted in the professional sports environment, we have seen how powerful sport can be, not only at the highest level but wherever it creates opportunity for people to grow.
It lives on in young men who once joined as children and who today support their families, build careers and share their knowledge with others.
It lives on in friendships that have lasted for years.
And in the quiet confidence that grew along the way.
At Berlinger Special, we are deeply grateful to all partners and supporters who made this journey possible.
What started on a football field continues far beyond it.
