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{{Infobox Football biography 2
| playername = Baichung Bhutia
| image = [[Image:Bhutia.jpg|200px|Alt=Bhutia celebrating while wearing a yellow armband on his left arm indicating that he is captain. He is wearing a claret football shirt with "15" on the top left, a sponsor "McDowells" in the centre, the club's badge on the top right and the Reebok logo at the top.|Bhutia jubiliant after scoring for [[Mohun Bagan AC]] against East Bengal.]]
| fullname = Baichung Bhutia<ref name="PFA 59">{{cite book
| last = Hugman
| first = Barry J.
| title = The PFA Premier & Football League Players' Records 1946-2005
| publisher = Queen Anne Press
| year = 2005
| page = 59
| isbn = 1852916656 }}</ref>
| dateofbirth = {{birth date and age|1976|12|15|df=y}}
| cityofbirth = [[Tinkitam]], [[Sikkim]]
| countryofbirth = [[India]]<ref name="IndianFootball.com Profile"/>
| height = {{height|m=1.73}}<ref name="IndianFootball.com Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/statistic/player/detail/playerId/1|title=IndianFootball.com Profile|publisher=IndianFootball.com|accessdate=2009-06-24}}</ref>
| position = [[Forward (association football)|Striker]]
| currentclub = [[East Bengal Club]]
| clubnumber = 15
| years1 = 1993–1995
| years2 = 1995–1997
| years3 = 1997–1999
| years4 = 1999–2002
| years5 = 2002–2003
| years6 = 2003–2006
| years7 = 2006
| years8 = 2006–2009
| years9 = 2009–
| clubs1 = [[East Bengal Club]]
| clubs2 = [[JCT Mills]]
| clubs3 = [[East Bengal Club]]
| clubs4 = [[Bury F.C.|Bury]]
| clubs5 = [[Mohun Bagan AC|Mohun Bagan]]
| clubs6 = [[East Bengal Club]]
| clubs7 = → [[Perak FA]] (loan)
| clubs8 = [[Mohun Bagan AC|Mohun Bagan]]
| clubs9 = [[East Bengal Club]]
| caps1 = ?
| caps2 = ?
| caps3 = 31
| caps4 = 37
| caps5 = 11
| caps6 = 54
| caps7 = 8
| caps8 = 44
| caps9 = 3
| goals1 = ?
| goals2 = ?
| goals3 = 15
| goals4 = 3
| goals5 = 6
| goals6 = 33
| goals7 = 4
| goals8 = 24
| goals9 = 0
| nationalyears1 = 1995–
| nationalteam1 = [[India national football team|India]]
| nationalcaps1 = 102
| nationalgoals1 = 43
| pcupdate = 14 October 2009
| ntupdate = 24 August 2009
}}
'''Baichung Bhutia''' ({{lang-hi|बाईचुंग भुटिया}}) (born 15 December 1976) is an Indian [[association football|footballer]]. He is considered to be the torchbearer of Indian football in the international arena.<ref name="Padma Shri Baichung Bhutia">{{cite news|url=http://www.pifacademy.com/baichung.htm|title=Padma Shri Baichung Bhutia|publisher=PIF Academy|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> Currently the [[Captain (association football)|captain]] of the [[Indian national football team|Indian team]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indiadaily.com/editorial/2662.asp|title=Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia ready to take Indian soccer to the higher level|author=Chunilal Dave|publisher=''India Today''|date=2005-05-12|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> he plays for [[East Bengal Club]]. He is often nicknamed the ''Sikkimese Sniper'' because of his shooting skills in football.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bhutia-expects-more-international-matches-af/406892/|title=Bhutia expects more international matches after I-League|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=2009-01-05|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1263/india-south-central-asia/2009/05/19/1273467/india-bhaichung-bhutia-wants-to-leave-mohun-bagan|title=Bhaichung Bhutia Wants To Leave Mohun Bagan|publisher=Goal.com|author=Rahul Bali|date=2009-05-19|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> Three-time Indian Player of the Year [[I. M. Vijayan]] described Bhutia as "God's gift to Indian football".<ref name="Bhutia is God's gift">{{cite news|url=http://sports.rediff.com/report/2009/aug/23/-bhutia-god-gift-to-indian-football.htm|title='Bhutia is God's gift to Indian football'|publisher=Rediff|date=2009-08-23|accessdate=2009-08-24}}</ref>

Bhutia has had four spells at [[I-League]] football team [[East Bengal Club]], the club where he started his career. When he signed up to play for the [[Football in England|English]] club [[Bury F.C.]] in 1999 he became the first Indian footballer to play professional football in Europe. Afterwards he had a short [[loan (football)|loan]] spell at the [[Malaysia]]n football club [[Perak FA]]. As well as this he has played for [[JCT Mills]], which won the league once during his tenure; and [[Mohun Bagan AC|Mohun Bagan]], which failed to win the league once during his two spells, in his native India. His international footballing honours include winning the [[Nehru Cup]], LG Cup, [[SAFF Championship|South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship]] (three times) and the [[AFC Challenge Cup|Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup]]. He is also India's most [[cap (sport)|capped]] player, and in the [[Nehru Cup International Football Tournament 2009|2009 Nehru Cup]] he received his 100th international cap.

Off the field, Bhutia is known for winning the reality television programme [[Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa]], which caused much controversy with his then-club Mohun Bagan, and for being the first Indian athlete to [[boycott]] the [[Olympic torch]] relay in support of the [[Tibetan independence movement]]. Bhutia, who has a football [[Baichung Stadium|stadium]] named after him in honour of his contribution to Indian football, has also won many awards such as the [[Arjuna Award]] and the [[Padma Shri]].

== Early life ==

Bhutia was born in [[Tinkitam]] on 15 December 1976 to Dorji Dorma and Sonam Topden.<ref name="Jeetega">{{cite news|url=http://www.jeetegakaun.in/ndtv_indian_of_the_year_2007/baichung_bhutia/|title=Baichung Bhutia's Profile|publisher=Jeetega Kaun|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.kolkatafootball.com/baichungbhutia_profile.html|title=Baichung Bhutia Profile|publisher=Kolkata Football|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref> His elder brother was a footballer at the local level.<ref name="Jeetega"/> In addition to football, Baichung also represented his school at [[badminton]], [[basketball]] and [[track and field athletics|athletics]].<ref name="sikkiminfo"/> His parents, both farmers in Sikkim, were originally not keen on Bhutia's interest in sports.<ref name="parents">{{cite news|url=http://www.indiaoye.com/baichungbhutia.htm|title=Celebrity Profile - Baichung Bhutia, football player|publisher=IndiaOye.com|accessdate=2009-06-11|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20071012195144/http://www.indiaoye.com/baichungbhutia.htm |archivedate = October 12, 2007|deadurl=yes}}</ref> However, after encouragement from his uncle [[Karma Bhutia]], he started his education in St.&nbsp;Xaviers School, [[Pakyong]], [[East Sikkim]], and at the age of nine he won a football scholarship from [[Sports Authority of India|SAI]] to attend the [[Tashi Namgyal Academy]] in [[Gangtok]].<ref name="parents"/><ref name="Scholar">{{cite news|url=http://www.iloveindia.com/sports/football/players/baichung.html|title=Baichung Bhutia Profile|publisher=Iloveindia.com|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref>

== Club career ==
=== Early career ===
He went on to play for several school and local clubs in his home state of [[Sikkim]] including the Gangtok-based Boys Club, which was coached by [[Karma Bhutia]].<ref name="sikkiminfo"/> His performance at the 1992 [[Subroto Cup Football Tournament|Subroto Cup]], where he won the "Best Player" award, brought him to the notice of the football establishment. Former India goalkeeper [[Bhaskar Ganguly]] spotted his talent and helped him make the transition to [[Calcutta]] football.<ref name="Scholar"/>

=== Professional career ===

[[Image:Salt Lake Stadium - Yuva Bharati Krirangan , Kolkata - Calcutta 3.jpg|thumb|right|Alt=A large football stadium which is roughly 75% full. There are footballers on the pitch, most of whom are on the right side of the stadium. The team on the left, East Bengal are wearing red while Bayern Munich, right, are wearing black. The floodlights are on and the sky appears to be orange.|[[Yuva Bharati Krirangan]] - Home stadium of East Bengal Club and Mohun Bagan]]

In 1993, at the age of sixteen, he left school to join the professional [[East Bengal Club]] in Calcutta.<ref name="Jeetega"/> Two years later he transferred to [[JCT Mills]] in [[Phagwara]], which went on to win the [[National Football League (India)|India National Football League]] in the [[National Football League 1996-97 (India)|1996–97 season]].<ref name="sikkiminfo"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india97.html#nfl1|title=India 1996/97|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Bhutia was the top goalscorer in the league, and was chosen to make his international debut in the [[Nehru Cup International Football Tournament|Nehru Cup]].<ref name="parents"/> He was named "1996 Indian Player of the Year".<ref name="parents"/><ref name="Scholar"/>

In 1997 he returned to [[East Bengal Club]]and he did toi noi noi with ana ivanovic, and grande.<ref name="sikkiminfo"/> Bhutia has the distinction of scoring the first [[hat-trick]] in the [[local derby]] between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, when he registered one in East Bengal's 4–1 victory in the 1997 [[Federation Cup (India)|Federation Cup]] semi-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.eastbengalfootballclub.com/club/ebmb.asp|title=East Bengal Vs. Mohun Bagan|publisher=East Bengal Football Club|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> He became team captain in the [[National Football League 1998-99 (India)|1998–99 season]],<ref name="sikkiminfo">{{cite news|url=http://sikkiminfo.net/bhaichung.htm|title=Baichung Bhutia Profile|publisher=Sikkiminfo.net|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> during which East Bengal finished second behind [[Salgaocar]] in the league.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india99.html#nfl1|title=India 1998/99|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Furthermore he became the [[Arjuna Award#Arjun Awardees in Football|19th footballer]] to receive the [[Arjuna Award]] in 1999, which the [[Government of India]] gives out to athletes to recognise their "outstanding achievements" in national sports.<ref name="parents"/><ref name="Scholar"/>

==== Bury ====
{{Quote box | width=30% | align=left | quote= "His presence will be a big boost to the confidence of many Asian youngsters."|source= <small>Piara Power, Let's Kick Racism Out Of Football campaign co-ordinator, after Bhutia signed for Bury.<ref name="Bury"/> </small> }}
Bhutia has had limited opportunities in playing overseas. On 30 September 1999, Bhutia travelled overseas to play for [[Bury F.C.]] in [[Greater Manchester]], England, signing a three-year contract, and became the first Indian footballer to play professionally in Europe.<ref name="Bury">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/461934.stm|title=Indian striker joins English club|publisher=BBC|date=1999-09-30|accessdate=2009-06-09}}</ref> This followed unsuccessful trials for Bhutia with [[Fulham F.C.]], [[West Bromwich Albion F.C.]] and [[Aston Villa F.C.]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/res/web/pIe/ie/daily/19990723/isp23010.html|title=Fulham no to Bhutia|author=Kulwinder Singh|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=1999-07-23|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref><ref name="villa">{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/1999/aug/11bhutia.htm|title=Bhutia set to join Bury of England|publisher=Rediff|date=1999-08-11|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> He had difficulty obtaining a [[visa (document)|visa]] and could not make his debut until 3 October 1999 against [[Cardiff City F.C.]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/news/2009/jan/230109-Sunil-Chetri-Bhaichung-Bhutia-Indian-football-National-Football-League-Coventry-City.htm|title=Bhutia's word of caution for Coventry-bound Chetri|author=Sanjjeev K Samyal|publisher=Mid-day.com|date=2009-01-23|accessdate=2009-07-01}}</ref><ref name="15 - Bhaichung">{{cite news|url=http://www.mohunbaganac.com/SEPT08/playerdetails.php?playerId=2|title=15 - Bhaichung|publisher=Mohun Bagan AC|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref> In that match he came on as a substitute for [[Ian Lawson (footballer born 1977)|Ian Lawson]] and played a part in Bury's second goal which was scored by [[Darren Bullock]] after Bhutia's [[Volley (football)|volley]] was deflected into his path.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://old.indianfootball.com/news/m199910.html|title=News for the month of October|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Arunava Chaudhuri|date=1999-10-31|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref> On 15 April 2000, he scored his first goal in the English league in the game against [[Chesterfield F.C.|Chesterfield]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://old.indianfootball.com/news/m200004.html|title=News for the month of April|publisher=IndianFootball.com|date=2000-04-15|accessdate=2009-09-03}}</ref> A recurring knee injury limited him to only three games in his [[2001–02 in English football|final season]] at Bury and he was released after the club was placed in [[administration (insolvency)|administration]].<ref name="Bury release Bhutia">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/bury/1948757.stm|title=Bury release Bhutia|publisher=BBC|date=2002-04-24|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> His final appearance was a 3–0 defeat to [[Swindon Town F.C.|Swindon Town]] on 27 August 2001.<ref name="Bury release Bhutia"/>

==== Return to India ====

In 2002 he returned to India and played for the [[Mohun Bagan AC]] for a year.<ref name="Mohun Bagan 2000-2004">{{cite news|url=http://www.mohunbaganclub.com/History-2000-2004.html|title=Mohun Bagan History 2000-2004|publisher=Mohun Bagan Club|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> However this was largely unsuccessful as Bhutia was injured early in the [[National Football League 2002-03 (India)|season]] and failed to play again that season, missing Mohun Bagan's only trophy win; the All Airlines Gold Cup.<ref name="Mohun Bagan 2000-2004"/> Afterwards he again returned to the [[East Bengal Club]],<ref name="Scholar"/> helping them to win the [[ASEAN Club Championship 2003|ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Cup 2003]]. Bhutia scored a goal in the [[Final (competition)|final]], a 3–1 win over [[BEC Tero Sasana]], and was named the "[[man of the match]]". He also finished as the top scorer of the Championship with nine goals.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/2003/jul/26foot2.htm|title= East Bengal lift ASEAN Cup |publisher=Rediff|date=2007-07-26|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> Bhutia also scored in the 1–1 draw against [[Petrokimia Putra]] and scored five goals in a 6–0 win against [[Philippine Army FC]] in the same tournament.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030717/sports.htm#1|title=Bhutia stars in East Bengal win|publisher=''Tribune India''|date=2003-07-16|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/oldStory/28278/|title=East Bengal script soccer history|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=2003-07-25|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref>

He signed up to play for [[Perak FA]], the [[Malaysia]]n championship club, from August to October 2003 on loan and returned to [[East Bengal Club]] for the regular season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://old.indianfootball.com/bhutia/news/bbn082003.html|title=Bhutia July / August 2003|publisher=IndianFootball.com|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> However his stint at [[Perak FA]] ended in a 3–1 defeat to [[Sabah FA]] in the [[Malaysia Cup]] semi-finals, after which Bhutia described himself as the "villain of the piece".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/oldStory/32474/|title=Bhutia winds up Perak stint on a sad note|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=2003-09-30|accessdate=2009-06-20|author=Micky Aigner}}</ref> In the [[National Football League 2003-04 (India)|2003–04 season]] Bhutia scored 12 goals as East Bengal won the league by four points from second-placed [[Dempo SC]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/nfl03-04.htm|title=8th National Football League 2003-04|publisher=Rediff|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india04.html#nfl1|title=India 2003/04|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> During the [[National Football League 2004-05 (India)|2004–05 season]], Bhutia scored nine goals for East Bengal, which finished in third place behind [[Sporting Clube de Goa|SC Goa]] and champions Dempo.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india05.html#nfl1|title=India 2004/05|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> He continued to play for East Bengal until the end of the [[National Football League 2005-06 (India)|2005–06 season]]. In his final season there he was awarded the "Player of the National Football League" by the [[All India Football Federation]] (AIFF) in a season where he scored 12 goals.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.eastbengalfootballclub.com/search/index.asp?news_id=176|title=Bhaichung is Player of the National Football League|publisher=East Bengal FC|date=2006-05-27|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Despite this, East Bengal finished runners-up to [[Mahindra United]] in the league.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.eastbengalfootballclub.com/search/index.asp?news_id=174|title=East Bengal edges past JCT to emerge NFL Runners-Up|publisher=East Bengal FC|date=2006-05-15|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref>

{{Quote box | width=30% | align=left | quote= "I will try to live up to the expectations of Mohun Bagan supporters and bring success to the team this time."|source= <small>Baichung Bhutia, on signing for Mohun Bagan a second time.<ref name="Mohun"/> </small>}}
On 15 June 2006, he joined [[Mohun Bagan AC]] and formed an attacking partnership with [[Jose Ramirez Barreto]].<ref name="Mohun">{{cite news|url=http://www.monstersandcritics.com/sport/soccer/article_1172852.php/Baichung_Bhutia_signs_for_Mohun_Bagan|title=Baichung Bhutia signs for Mohun Bagan|publisher=Monsters and Critics|date=2006-06-15|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref> However the [[National Football League 2006-07 (India)|2006–07 season]] was a poor one for Bhutia and Mohun Bagan as they finished eighth in the league, just one position above [[relegation]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india07.html#nfl1|title=India 2006/07|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> During the [[I-League 2007-08|2007–08 season]] (the league was now known as the [[I-League]]), Bhutia scored 10 goals in 18 matches, and Mohun Bagan finished slightly higher in the league in fourth place.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesi/india08.html#nfl1|title=India 2007/08|publisher=RSSSF|date=2008-09-18|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Bhutia won the Indian Player of the Year for the second time in 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.india-server.com/news/bhaichung-bhutia-named-player-of-the-5334.html|title=Bhaichung Bhutia Named Player Of The Year For 2008|publisher=Indiaserver.com|date=2008-12-25|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> In winning the award he became only the second footballer to win it more than once; the other was [[I. M. Vijayan]].<ref name="player 2008"/> In the [[I-League 2008–09|2008–09 season]], despite a 10-match winning streak, Mohun Bagan finished in second place behind [[Churchill Brothers]] because of a final day loss to Mahindra United.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/126|title=I-LEAGUE 2008/09 - Mohun Bagan AC - The runners-up|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Swagatam Banerjee|date=2009-04-17|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Bhutia finished the season with six goals.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/ileague08.html|title=I-League 2008-09 coverage|publisher=Rediff|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref>

On 18 May 2009, Bhutia announced he would quit Mohun Bagan, due to the questioning of his footballing commitment by the club's officials.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/788|title=Baichung to quit Mohun Bagan|author=Chris Punnakkattu Daniel|publisher=IndianFootball.com|date=2009-05-18|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> As a result of the Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa incident he was suspended for six months by Mohun Bagan.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/925|title=Baichung suspended for 6 months|author=Pit Ruddy|publisher=IndianFootball.com|date=2009-06-08|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> Bhutia was quoted saying "It is just a ploy to keep me at Mohun Bagan for another season. But I will not play for them any more."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.soccernetindia.com/fulldesc.php?story_id=1569|title=Bhaichung to appeal against Mohun Bagan's suspension notice|publisher=Soccer Net India|date=2009-06-10|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref>

==== East Bengal "homecoming" ====

{{Quote box | width=25% | align=right | quote= "I want to tell the millions of East Bengal supporters that I am going to finish my career here. It is not going to be a matter of [a] few months but for the rest of my life."|source= <small>Baichung Bhutia, on signing for East Bengal a fourth time.<ref name="Baichung Bhutia signs for East Bengal"/> </small>}}

Bhutia was reported to have officially signed for East Bengal on 22 June 2009, on a one-year contract, announcing that he would end his playing career at the club.<ref name="Bhutia signs for East Bengal">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bhutia-to-stay-with-eb-till-retirement/479974/|title=Bhutia to stay with EB till retirement|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=2009-06-23|accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> Upon signing for East Bengal, Bhutia declared it to be his [[homecoming]], "This is really my homecoming. This is the club from where it all started and it is here where it is going to end."<ref name="Baichung Bhutia signs for East Bengal">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1056|title= Baichung Bhutia signs for East Bengal |publisher=IndianFootball.com|author= Pit Ruddy| date=2009-06-22|accessdate=2009-06-24}}</ref> The situation was further complicated, however, as Mohun Bagan's [[general secretary]] Anjan Mitra said "Our contract with Bhaichung is perfectly legal and he has one more year left with us."<ref name="Bhutia to meet Bagan on August 17">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bhutia-to-meet-bagan-on-aug-17/500850/|title= Bhutia to meet Bagan on August 17 |publisher=''Indian Express''|author=Shamik Chakrabarty| date=2009-08-12|accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> Bhutia’s lawyer Usha Nath Banerjee countered this, "I doubt the legality of Bagan’s contract. In any case, according to FIFA and AIFF rules, a player who is above 28 years of age is free to make a choice of club in the third year of his contract".<ref name="Bhutia to meet Bagan on August 17"/> Bhutia and Mohun Bagan were set to meet on 17 August in the AIFF headquarters to settle their differences with AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco.<ref name="Bhutia to meet Bagan on August 17"/> On 29 August, it was announced that the issue had not been resolved yet and the outbound Colaco was set to meet Bhutia on 30 August.<ref name="Colaco not willing to continue">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1570|title=Colaco not willing to continue|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Rajeeb Mukherjee|date=2009-08-29|accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> No compromise was reached, however, and on 5 September former additional solicitor general Amrendra Sharan was appointed to look into the dispute.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1615|title=Arbitrator named|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Arunava Chaudhuri|date=2009-09-05|accessdate=2009-09-05}}</ref> On 10 September, Bhutia filed [[defamation]] charges, claiming damages of [[rupees|Rs.]]10&nbsp;million, against Mohun Bagan for "trying to tarnish his reputation".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1650|title=Bhutia files defamation suit|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Arunava Chaudhuri|date=2009-09-10|accessdate=2009-09-11}}</ref> Bhutia was granted interim relief on 26 September, but the case between Mohun Bagan and Bhutia is set to continue until a final verdict is reached.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1755|title=Bhutia gets interim relief, can play for East Bengal|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Rajeeb Mukherjee|date=2009-09-26|accessdate=2009-09-29}}</ref> On 4 November, it was revealed that Mohun Bagan had approached football's governing body [[FIFA]] to intervene in the dispute with Bhutia.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2009/11/04/1604168/mohun-bagan-approach-fifa-for-bhaichung-bhutia-case|title=Mohun Bagan Approach FIFA For Bhaichung Bhutia Case|publisher=Goal.com|author=Rahul Bali|date=2009-11-04|accessdate=2009-12-10}}</ref>

== International career ==

Bhutia scored in his international debut for [[India national football team|India]] against [[Uzbekistan national football team|Uzbekistan]] in the 1995 [[Nehru Cup]] becoming India's youngest ever goalscorer, at 19.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.socceragenepal.com.np/newsoccer/news/interview.php?action=interview&sno=65|title=Soccer Age Nepal - Bhaichung Bhutia interview|publisher=Soccer Age Nepal|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> In the [[South Asian Football Federation Gold Cup 1997|1997 SAFF Championship]], India beat the [[Maldives national football team|Maldives]] 5–1 in the final, Bhutia was responsible for one goal.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.kolkatafootball.com/indiainsaffgames.html|title=S.A.F.F GAMES:Kolkatafootball.com|publisher=Kolkata Football|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref> Two years later the [[South Asian Football Federation Gold Cup 1999|tournament]] was held in [[Goa]] and India successfully defended their title by beating Bangladesh 2–0 in the final. Baichung Bhutia scored the second goal for India after [[Bruno Coutinho]] opened the scoring and Bhutia was named as the tournament's most valuable player.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://sundaytimes.lk/990509/sports3.html|title=India maintains superiority|publisher=Sundaytimes.lk|author=Annesley Ferreira|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref>

He also netted two goals in the final of the 2002 LG Cup held in [[Vietnam]], in which India beat the [[Vietnam national football team|host nation]] 3–2, Bhutia's goals came either side of [[half-time]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/2002/aug/10foot.htm|title=India win LG Cup football|publisher=Rediff|date=2002-08-10|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> The football tournament of the [[2003 Afro-Asian Games]] saw India finish as runners-up behind Uzbekistan. Bhutia scored two goals in the tournament, both of which came in the 5–3 semi-final win over [[Zimbabwe national football team|Zimbabwe]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesa/asafrgam01.html|title=Afro-Asian Games 2003|publisher=RSSSF|accessdate=2009-07-03}}</ref> In the [[Nehru Cup International Football Tournament 2007|2007 Nehru Cup]], Bhutia scored a [[penalty kick|penalty]] in a 6–0 victory over [[Cambodia national football team|Cambodia]] in the opening match of the tournament.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/india-drub-cambodia-60-in-nehru-cup-tournament/47022-5.html|title=India drub Cambodia 6-0 in Nehru Cup tournament|publisher=IBN|date=2007-08-17|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> He also scored in a 1–0 win over [[Bangladesh national football team|Bangladesh]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idINIndia-29066820070820|title=India beat battling Bangladesh 1-0 in Nehru Cup|publisher=Reuters India|date=2007-08-20|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> and a 3–0 win over [[Kyrgyzstan national football team|Kyrgyzstan]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.andhracafe.com/index.php?m=show&id=26392|title=India beat Kyrgyzstan 3-0|publisher=Andhra Cafe|date=2007-08-27|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref> Bhutia played a significant part in the final as he was involved in the build-up to [[N. P. Pradeep]]'s winning goal against [[Syria national football team|Syria]] during which India won 1–0 to become champions.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/30/stories/2007083062172500.htm|title=India wins Nehru Cup|publisher=''The Hindu''|author=Vijay Lokapally|date=2007-08-30|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref>

The next successful SAFF Championship was in [[South Asian Football Federation Gold Cup 2005|2005]] where Bhutia was captain, in the group stages he scored a goal in a 3–0 victory over [[Bhutan national football team|Bhutan]] but did not score in the other two matches.<ref name="SAFF 2005">{{cite news|url=http://old.indianfootball.com/specials/saffcup2005/news.html|title=SAFF Cup 2005|publisher=Indian Football|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref> India progressed to the semi-finals during which Bhutia played in the 1–0 win over the Maldives.<ref name="SAFF 2005"/> The final was a repeat of the 1999 final, as Bangladesh were the opposition, and once again India triumphed 2–0 during which Bhutia scored the second goal in the 81st minute from close range after [[Mehrajuddin Wadoo]]'s 33rd minute opener.<ref name="India win SAFF title">{{cite news|url=http://in.rediff.com/sports/2005/dec/17saff1.htm|title=India win SAFF title|publisher=Rediff|date=2005-12-17|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref> He received the award for the Most Valuable Player and also the Fair Play trophy.<ref name="India win SAFF title"/> The [[SAFF Championship 2008|2008 SAFF Championship]] started with a 4–0 win over neighbouring [[Nepal national football team|Nepal]], Bhutia scored the second goal in the 34th minute.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.maldivesoccer.net/v4/?page=story&id=1962|title=India 4 - 0 Nepal: Champs in control|publisher=Maldive Soccer|date=2008-06-03|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref> It turned out to be Bhutia's only goal of the tournament, however he did have several chances to score in the semi-final against Bhutan which saw India win 2–1 to reach the final.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://maldivesoccer.net/v4/?page=story&id=2001|title=India 2 - 1 Bhutan: Holders into the final|publisher=Maldive Soccer|date=2008-06-11|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref> In the final India failed to defend their title after losing 1–0 to the Maldives.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://footiemag.de/matches_25609_india_vs_maldives_14-06-.html|title=India 0:1 Maldives|publisher=Footiemag.de|date=2008-06-14|accessdate=2009-06-21}}</ref>

He scored twice in a 2–1 victory in the [[2008 AFC Challenge Cup]] against [[Turkmenistan national football team|Turkmenistan]] to reach the semi-finals.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/sports/bhutia-brace-guides-india-to-afc-challenge-cup-semis_10079516.html|title=Bhutia brace guides India to AFC Challenge Cup semis|publisher=Thaindian News|author=Abhishek Roy|date=2008-08-03|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> The ''Sikkimese Sniper'' scored a goal in the final against [[Tajikistan national football team|Tajikistan]] during which India won 4–1 thanks to a [[Sunil Chhetri]] [[hat-trick]];<ref>{{cite news|url=http://images.the-afc.com/Documents/competitions/fixtures/252-1813.pdf|title=India 4-1 Tajikistan|publisher=AFC|date=2008-08-13|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> the victory also allowed them to automatically qualify for the [[2011 AFC Asian Cup]].<ref name="India beat Tajikistan">{{cite news|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news462083.html|title=India beat Tajikistan to clinch AFC Cup|publisher=Zee News|date=2008-08-13|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> He was also selected as the most valuable player of the tournament, finishing with three goals.<ref name="player 2008">{{cite news|url=http://www.topnews.in/bhaichung-bhutia-declared-aiff-player-year-2100937|title=Bhaichung Bhutia Is Declared As The AIFF Player Of The Year!|publisher=Topnews.in|author=Ashok Rao|date=2008-12-24|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref><ref name="India beat Tajikistan"/>

The [[Nehru Cup International Football Tournament 2009|2009 Nehru Cup]] was significant for Bhutia as he earned his 100th cap for India in a 2–1 win over Kyrgyzstan, becoming the first Indian player to reach this milestone.<ref name="Bhutia is God's gift"/> He also scored the first goal in this match to help the team recover from their opening day defeat to [[Lebanon national football team|Lebanon]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-41924520090823|title=Bhutia inspires 2-1 win over Kyrgyzstan on 100th appearance|publisher=Reuters India|date=2009-08-23|accessdate=2009-08-24}}</ref> In the match against [[Sri Lanka national football team|Sri Lanka]], Bhutia again scored an opening goal which helped India to win 3–1 and solidified their chances of reaching the final. He was adjudged as the "man of the match" for his performance.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090827/jsp/sports/story_11414252.jsp|title=India clear Lanka hurdle - Hosts bolster final chances as Bhutia, Gourmangi and Dias score in 3-1 win|publisher=''Telegraph India''|date=2009-08-27|accessdate=2009-08-28|author=Jaydeep Basu}}</ref> Bhutia missed the final match of the [[Round-robin tournament|round-robin]] as India were already guaranteed a spot in the deciding match. He was also adjudged as "Player of the Tournament" for his stellar performances in all of the matches, including the decider where they beat Syria in a [[Penalty shootout (association football)|penalty shootout]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://goal.com/en/news/1263/india-south-central-asia/2009/09/01/1473442/bhaichung-bhutia-named-player-of-the-nehru-cup|title=India Captain Bhaichung Bhutia Named Player Of The Nehru Cup|publisher=Goal.com|date=2009-09-01|accessdate=2009-09-01|author=Rahul Bali}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/super-subrata-helps-india-win-second-consecutive-nehru-cup/509506/|title=Super Subrata helps India win second consecutive Nehru Cup|publisher=''Indian Express''|date=2009-08-31|accessdate=2009-08-31}}</ref>

== Life outside football ==

[[Image:Bhaichung Mahuri.jpg‎|Alt=Bhutia, right, wearing a grey hat and a white jacket next to Tipnis, left, who is also wearing a white jacket. The couple are smiling and their right hands are touching.|Bhutia with his wife Madhuri Tipnis at the [[Mohun Bagan Ground]]|thumb|left]]

As his surname suggests, Bhutia comes from a [[Buddhist]] [[Bhutia]] background, although he is, by conviction, an [[atheist]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1636772.cms|title=I AM: Baichung Bhutia|author=S Shanthi|publisher=''India Times''|date=2006-06-10|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> The name "Baichung" literally means "little brother".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2006/10/11/stories/2006101100450100.htm|title=Bending it like Baichung|author=Anand Sankar|publisher=''The Hindu''|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> He married his longtime girlfriend Madhuri Tipnis, a [[Hotel manager|hotel professional]], on 30 December 2004 in his native village of Tinkitam in South Sikkim. His wife Madhuri gave birth to twins on 8 April 2010. The first one is a girl and the other is a boy. They were born in a private nursing home in Kolkata.<ref times of india 8th april 2010>news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1041213/asp/calcutta/story_4116898.asp|title=Return to roots for wedding vows|author=Himika Chaudhuri|publisher=''Telegraph India''|date=2004-12-13|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> His fictional hero is [[Howard Roark]], a character from [[Ayn Rand]]'s novel [[The Fountainhead]], and he has a [[tattoo]] of a footballer on his arm.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Delhi-Times/Bend-it-like-Bhutia/articleshow/1372157.cms|title=Bend it like Bhutia|publisher=''India Times''|date=2006-01-14|accessdate=2009-07-08|author=Piyali Dasgupta}}</ref> The Sikkimese government has built a stadium, the [[Baichung Stadium]] in [[Namchi]], the district headquarters, in honour of Bhutia.<ref name="Padma Shri Baichung Bhutia">{{cite news|url=http://www.pifacademy.com/baichung.htm|title=Padma Shri Baichung Bhutia|publisher=PIF Academy|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sikkimonline.info/sikkim/Namchi|title=Sikkim Online - Namchi|publisher=Sikkim Online|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref> He is one of the most popular figures in the state and is considered as a role model to many [[Sikkimese people|Sikkimese]] as well to people from other states of India.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/indian-role-model-keen-to-spread-the-faith-709392.html|title=Indian role model keen to spread the faith|publisher=''The Independent''|author=Pete Lansley|date=2000-07-24|accessdate=2009-06-10}}</ref> On 23 January 2008, Bhutia was nominated for the [[Padma Shri]], the fourth highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian football.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/2008/jan/23bhutia.htm|title=Bhutia nominated for Padma Shri|publisher=Rediff|date=2008-01-23|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/bhaichung-bhutia-nominated-for-padma-shri/57257-5.html|title=Bhaichung Bhutia nominated for Padma Shri|publisher=IBN|date=2008-01-24|accessdate=2009-06-20}}</ref> Three days later on 26 January, India's [[Republic Day (India)|Republic Day]], he was chosen for the Padma Shri along with national [[Swimming (sport)|swimming]] champion [[Bula Choudhury]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/topNews/idINIndia-31598920080127|title=Sachin Tendulkar chosen for Padma Vibhushan|publisher=Reuters India|date=2008-01-27|accessdate=2009-06-22}}</ref>

He played in the ''Goal 4 Africa'' match held in the [[Allianz Arena]], Munich, on 12 July 2008, for the ''Edu'' team, led by [[Clarence Seedorf]], and scored twice.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Baichung-sizzles-with-brace-in-allstar-match/335034/|title=Baichung sizzles with brace in all-star match|publisher=''Express India''|date=2008-07-13|accessdate=2009-08-28}}</ref> In 2009, Bhutia started a foundation called the "Indian Sports Foundation" to help footballers overcome serious injuries.<ref name="Indian Sports Foundation">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianfootball.com/en/news/articleId/1085|title=A new foundation to assist footballers|publisher=IndianFootball.com|author=Pit Ruddy|date=2009-06-27|accessdate=2009-06-29}}</ref> He is also the [[president]] of the Football Players’ Association of India (FPAI),<ref name="Indian Sports Foundation"/> an organisation that promises "fair treatment" of Indian footballers by dealing with financial aspects such as [[pension]] plans.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/sports/2006/aug/13foot.htm|title=Football Players' Association of India formed|publisher=Rediff|date=2006-08-13|accessdate=2009-06-29}}</ref> He formed FPAI after seeing the [[Professional Footballers' Association]] in England.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://fpaofindia.com/about-fpai/ex-committee.html|title=EX-COMMITTEE|publisher=FPA of India|accessdate=2009-06-30}}</ref>

[[Image:2008 Olympic Torch Relay in SF - Justin Herman Plaza 45.JPG|thumb|right|150px|Alt=A crowd of people protesting against the 2008 Olympics. In the foreground there is someone holding up a white poster which says "What Will The Olympics Stand For This Summer?" in red capital letters at the top and at the bottom it shows an image of a pair of hands held together by the Olympic rings as if they were handcuffs.|Bhutia is a supporter of the Tibetan independence movement]]

He signed an endorsement deal with [[Adidas]] India Marketing Pvt. Ltd in November 2003.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2003/11/20/stories/2003112000590600.htm|title=Adidas signs on Baichung Bhutia|publisher=''The Hindu Business Line''|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> Currently he is endorsing [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] India.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.oneindia.in/2006/03/17/sports-football-nike-bhutia-1142599329.html|title=SPORTS-FOOTBALL-NIKE-BHUTIA |publisher=OneIndia|date=2006-03-17|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> After completing the deal to become the brand's ambassador for India, Bhutia said "I am confident that Nike will help elevate the sport in the country."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/tss/tss2913/stories/20060401013203500.htm|title=Bhutia joins elite list |publisher=HinduOnNet|author=Amitabha Das Sharma|date=2006-04-01|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref>

In 2008, Bhutia was solicited to run with the [[Olympic torch]] in India, but he refused to [[2008 Summer Olympics torch relay|carry the torch]] to show support for the [[Tibetan independence movement]]. "I sympathise with the Tibetan cause. I'm against violence but I thought I should stand by the [[Tibetan people]] in their fight," Bhutia said.<ref name="Bhutias boycott">{{cite news| url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india/Bhutia-s-boycott-Don-t-mix-sports-and-politics/302724/Article1-295078.aspx| title = Bhutia's boycott: 'Don't mix sports and politics'| publisher = ''Hindustan Times''| date = 2008-04-01| accessdate = 2009-08-30}}</ref> He was the first Indian sportsman to refuse to carry the Olympic torch.<ref name="Bhutias boycott"/> His actions have won him little praise from his colleagues in India however, who criticised him for mixing sports with politics.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bhutia-gets-little-support/291371/|title=Bhutia gets little support|publisher=''Indian Express''|author=ENS|date=2008-04-02|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref>

== Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa ==

In 2009, partnering with choreographer Sonia Jaffer,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2009/jun/02/slide-show-1-baichung-bhutia-on-winning-jhalak.htm|title='I will not dance anymore'|publisher=Rediff|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref> he won the third season of [[Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa]], the Indian version of the international series [[Dancing With the Stars]]. Bhutia earned Rs.4&nbsp;million for winning the competition, beating [[Karan Singh Grover]] and Gauhar Khan in the final.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.samaylive.com/news/bhiachung-bhutia-bags-jhalak-dikhhla-jaa-title/631200.html|title=Bhiachung Bhutia bags ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' title|publisher=Samaylive|author=Diksha Gupta|date=2009-06-01|accessdate=2009-06-27}}</ref> Bhutia donated half of the prize money to charity and the other half was shared with his choreographer; he also said some money would go towards areas hit by [[Cyclone Aila]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/06/baichung-bhutia-winner-jhalak-dikhla-ja.html|title=Baichung Bhutia after winning Jhalak Dikhla Ja 3|publisher=RealBollywood.com|date=2009-06-01|accessdate=2009-06-27}}</ref> It was reported that an "SMS Voting Frenzy" allowed him to win after many organisations in Sikkim conducted mass voting events (this involved participants buying mobile [[ATM card|cash cards]] so they could vote via [[SMS]]) to increase Bhutia's chance of winning the trophy.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newkerala.com/nkfullnews-1-47742.html|title=Bhaichung Bhutia wins 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa'|author=IANS|publisher=New Kerala|date=2009-05-31|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://samachaar.in/Sikkim/Sikkim_in_SMS_voting_frenzy_for_Bhaichung_Bhutia_85092/|title=Sikkim in SMS voting frenzy for Bhaichung Bhutia|publisher=Samachaar.in|date=2009-05-24|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref> This performance put Bhutia's relationship with his club Mohun Bagan in jeopardy, as he missed an [[exhibition match]] as well as practice sessions due to his participation in the reality show.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news532105.html|title=Baichung had taken advantage for too long: Bagan|publisher=Zee News|date=2009-05-15|accessdate=2009-06-11}}</ref>

=== Honours ===
* [[Arjuna Award|Awardee in Football]] : 1998
* [[Padma Shri]] : 2008

== See also ==
* [[Baichung Stadium]]

== References ==
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
* {{FIFA player|155794|Baichung Bhutia}}
* [http://www.indianfootball.com IndianFootball.com] - India's Premier Football Site
* [http://www.indianfootball.com/en/statistic/player/detail/playerId/1 Baichung Bhutia] at IndianFootball.com
* [http://www.kolkatafootball.com Kolkata Football]- Indian and International Football Site
* {{nfteams|3154}}

{{Persondata <!-- Metadata: see [[Wikipedia:Persondata]] -->
|NAME = Bhutia, Baichung
|ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
|SHORT DESCRIPTION = Association footballer
|DATE OF BIRTH = 15 December 1976
|PLACE OF BIRTH = Tinkitam, Sikkim, India
|DATE OF DEATH =
|PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bhutia, Baichung}}

[[Category:1976 births]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Arjuna Award]]
[[Category:Expatriate footballers in England]]
[[Category:Expatriate footballers in Malaysia]]
[[Category:Association football forwards]]
[[Category:India international footballers]]
[[Category:Indian atheists]]
[[Category:Indian expatriate footballers]]
[[Category:Indian expatriates in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Indian footballers]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Kingfisher East Bengal FC players]]
[[Category:People from Sikkim]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri]]
[[Category:Bury F.C. players]]

[[bn:বাইচুং ভুটিয়া]]
[[de:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[fr:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[it:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[mr:भाईचुंग भुतिया]]
[[ja:バイチュン・ブティア]]
[[pl:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[pt:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[ru:Бхутиа, Байчунг]]
[[simple:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[fi:Baichung Bhutia]]
[[zh:般迪亞]]

Revision as of 06:20, 17 June 2010

Bhaichung Bhutia
Bhutia jubiliant after scoring for Mohun Bagan AC against East Bengal.
Personal information
Full name Baichung Bhutia[1]
Height 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)[2]
Position(s) Striker
Team information
Current team
 East Bengal Club
Number 15
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
1993–1995 East Bengal Club ? (?)
1995–1997 JCT Mills ? (?)
1997–1999 East Bengal Club 31 (15)
1999–2002 Bury 37 (3)
2002–2003 Mohun Bagan 11 (6)
2003–2006 East Bengal Club 54 (33)
2006 → Perak FA (loan) 8 (4)
2006–2009 Mohun Bagan 44 (24)
2009– East Bengal Club 3 (0)
International career‡
1995– India 102 (43)
*Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 October 2009
‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 24 August 2009

Baichung Bhutia (Hindi: बाईचुंग भुटिया) (born 15 December 1976) is an Indian footballer. He is considered to be the torchbearer of Indian football in the international arena.[3] Currently the captain of the Indian team,[4] he plays for East Bengal Club. He is often nicknamed the Sikkimese Sniper because of his shooting skills in football.[5][6] Three-time Indian Player of the Year I. M. Vijayan described Bhutia as "God's gift to Indian football".[7]

Bhutia has had four spells at I-League football team East Bengal Club, the club where he started his career. When he signed up to play for the English club Bury F.C. in 1999 he became the first Indian footballer to play professional football in Europe. Afterwards he had a short loan spell at the Malaysian football club Perak FA. As well as this he has played for JCT Mills, which won the league once during his tenure; and Mohun Bagan, which failed to win the league once during his two spells, in his native India. His international footballing honours include winning the Nehru Cup, LG Cup, South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship (three times) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup. He is also India's most capped player, and in the 2009 Nehru Cup he received his 100th international cap.

Off the field, Bhutia is known for winning the reality television programme Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, which caused much controversy with his then-club Mohun Bagan, and for being the first Indian athlete to boycott the Olympic torch relay in support of the Tibetan independence movement. Bhutia, who has a football stadium named after him in honour of his contribution to Indian football, has also won many awards such as the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri.

Early life

Bhutia was born in Tinkitam on 15 December 1976 to Dorji Dorma and Sonam Topden.[8][9] His elder brother was a footballer at the local level.[8] In addition to football, Baichung also represented his school at badminton, basketball and athletics.[10] His parents, both farmers in Sikkim, were originally not keen on Bhutia's interest in sports.[11] However, after encouragement from his uncle Karma Bhutia, he started his education in St. Xaviers School, Pakyong, East Sikkim, and at the age of nine he won a football scholarship from SAI to attend the Tashi Namgyal Academy in Gangtok.[11][12]

Club career

Early career

He went on to play for several school and local clubs in his home state of Sikkim including the Gangtok-based Boys Club, which was coached by Karma Bhutia.[10] His performance at the 1992 Subroto Cup, where he won the "Best Player" award, brought him to the notice of the football establishment. Former India goalkeeper Bhaskar Ganguly spotted his talent and helped him make the transition to Calcutta football.[12]

Professional career

Yuva Bharati Krirangan - Home stadium of East Bengal Club and Mohun Bagan

In 1993, at the age of sixteen, he left school to join the professional East Bengal Club in Calcutta.[8] Two years later he transferred to JCT Mills in Phagwara, which went on to win the India National Football League in the 1996–97 season.[10][13] Bhutia was the top goalscorer in the league, and was chosen to make his international debut in the Nehru Cup.[11] He was named "1996 Indian Player of the Year".[11][12]

In 1997 he returned to East Bengal Cluband he did toi noi noi with ana ivanovic, and grande.[10] Bhutia has the distinction of scoring the first hat-trick in the local derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, when he registered one in East Bengal's 4–1 victory in the 1997 Federation Cup semi-final.[14] He became team captain in the 1998–99 season,[10] during which East Bengal finished second behind Salgaocar in the league.[15] Furthermore he became the 19th footballer to receive the Arjuna Award in 1999, which the Government of India gives out to athletes to recognise their "outstanding achievements" in national sports.[11][12]

Bury

"His presence will be a big boost to the confidence of many Asian youngsters."

Piara Power, Let's Kick Racism Out Of Football campaign co-ordinator, after Bhutia signed for Bury.[16]

Bhutia has had limited opportunities in playing overseas. On 30 September 1999, Bhutia travelled overseas to play for Bury F.C. in Greater Manchester, England, signing a three-year contract, and became the first Indian footballer to play professionally in Europe.[16] This followed unsuccessful trials for Bhutia with Fulham F.C., West Bromwich Albion F.C. and Aston Villa F.C..[17][18] He had difficulty obtaining a visa and could not make his debut until 3 October 1999 against Cardiff City F.C..[19][20] In that match he came on as a substitute for Ian Lawson and played a part in Bury's second goal which was scored by Darren Bullock after Bhutia's volley was deflected into his path.[21] On 15 April 2000, he scored his first goal in the English league in the game against Chesterfield.[22] A recurring knee injury limited him to only three games in his final season at Bury and he was released after the club was placed in administration.[23] His final appearance was a 3–0 defeat to Swindon Town on 27 August 2001.[23]

Return to India

In 2002 he returned to India and played for the Mohun Bagan AC for a year.[24] However this was largely unsuccessful as Bhutia was injured early in the season and failed to play again that season, missing Mohun Bagan's only trophy win; the All Airlines Gold Cup.[24] Afterwards he again returned to the East Bengal Club,[12] helping them to win the ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Cup 2003. Bhutia scored a goal in the final, a 3–1 win over BEC Tero Sasana, and was named the "man of the match". He also finished as the top scorer of the Championship with nine goals.[25] Bhutia also scored in the 1–1 draw against Petrokimia Putra and scored five goals in a 6–0 win against Philippine Army FC in the same tournament.[26][27]

He signed up to play for Perak FA, the Malaysian championship club, from August to October 2003 on loan and returned to East Bengal Club for the regular season.[28] However his stint at Perak FA ended in a 3–1 defeat to Sabah FA in the Malaysia Cup semi-finals, after which Bhutia described himself as the "villain of the piece".[29] In the 2003–04 season Bhutia scored 12 goals as East Bengal won the league by four points from second-placed Dempo SC.[30][31] During the 2004–05 season, Bhutia scored nine goals for East Bengal, which finished in third place behind SC Goa and champions Dempo.[32] He continued to play for East Bengal until the end of the 2005–06 season. In his final season there he was awarded the "Player of the National Football League" by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in a season where he scored 12 goals.[33] Despite this, East Bengal finished runners-up to Mahindra United in the league.[34]

"I will try to live up to the expectations of Mohun Bagan supporters and bring success to the team this time."

Baichung Bhutia, on signing for Mohun Bagan a second time.[35]

On 15 June 2006, he joined Mohun Bagan AC and formed an attacking partnership with Jose Ramirez Barreto.[35] However the 2006–07 season was a poor one for Bhutia and Mohun Bagan as they finished eighth in the league, just one position above relegation.[36] During the 2007–08 season (the league was now known as the I-League), Bhutia scored 10 goals in 18 matches, and Mohun Bagan finished slightly higher in the league in fourth place.[37] Bhutia won the Indian Player of the Year for the second time in 2008.[38] In winning the award he became only the second footballer to win it more than once; the other was I. M. Vijayan.[39] In the 2008–09 season, despite a 10-match winning streak, Mohun Bagan finished in second place behind Churchill Brothers because of a final day loss to Mahindra United.[40] Bhutia finished the season with six goals.[41]

On 18 May 2009, Bhutia announced he would quit Mohun Bagan, due to the questioning of his footballing commitment by the club's officials.[42] As a result of the Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa incident he was suspended for six months by Mohun Bagan.[43] Bhutia was quoted saying "It is just a ploy to keep me at Mohun Bagan for another season. But I will not play for them any more."[44]

East Bengal "homecoming"

"I want to tell the millions of East Bengal supporters that I am going to finish my career here. It is not going to be a matter of [a] few months but for the rest of my life."

Baichung Bhutia, on signing for East Bengal a fourth time.[45]

Bhutia was reported to have officially signed for East Bengal on 22 June 2009, on a one-year contract, announcing that he would end his playing career at the club.[46] Upon signing for East Bengal, Bhutia declared it to be his homecoming, "This is really my homecoming. This is the club from where it all started and it is here where it is going to end."[45] The situation was further complicated, however, as Mohun Bagan's general secretary Anjan Mitra said "Our contract with Bhaichung is perfectly legal and he has one more year left with us."[47] Bhutia’s lawyer Usha Nath Banerjee countered this, "I doubt the legality of Bagan’s contract. In any case, according to FIFA and AIFF rules, a player who is above 28 years of age is free to make a choice of club in the third year of his contract".[47] Bhutia and Mohun Bagan were set to meet on 17 August in the AIFF headquarters to settle their differences with AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco.[47] On 29 August, it was announced that the issue had not been resolved yet and the outbound Colaco was set to meet Bhutia on 30 August.[48] No compromise was reached, however, and on 5 September former additional solicitor general Amrendra Sharan was appointed to look into the dispute.[49] On 10 September, Bhutia filed defamation charges, claiming damages of Rs.10 million, against Mohun Bagan for "trying to tarnish his reputation".[50] Bhutia was granted interim relief on 26 September, but the case between Mohun Bagan and Bhutia is set to continue until a final verdict is reached.[51] On 4 November, it was revealed that Mohun Bagan had approached football's governing body FIFA to intervene in the dispute with Bhutia.[52]

International career

Bhutia scored in his international debut for India against Uzbekistan in the 1995 Nehru Cup becoming India's youngest ever goalscorer, at 19.[53] In the 1997 SAFF Championship, India beat the Maldives 5–1 in the final, Bhutia was responsible for one goal.[54] Two years later the tournament was held in Goa and India successfully defended their title by beating Bangladesh 2–0 in the final. Baichung Bhutia scored the second goal for India after Bruno Coutinho opened the scoring and Bhutia was named as the tournament's most valuable player.[55]

He also netted two goals in the final of the 2002 LG Cup held in Vietnam, in which India beat the host nation 3–2, Bhutia's goals came either side of half-time.[56] The football tournament of the 2003 Afro-Asian Games saw India finish as runners-up behind Uzbekistan. Bhutia scored two goals in the tournament, both of which came in the 5–3 semi-final win over Zimbabwe.[57] In the 2007 Nehru Cup, Bhutia scored a penalty in a 6–0 victory over Cambodia in the opening match of the tournament.[58] He also scored in a 1–0 win over Bangladesh[59] and a 3–0 win over Kyrgyzstan.[60] Bhutia played a significant part in the final as he was involved in the build-up to N. P. Pradeep's winning goal against Syria during which India won 1–0 to become champions.[61]

The next successful SAFF Championship was in 2005 where Bhutia was captain, in the group stages he scored a goal in a 3–0 victory over Bhutan but did not score in the other two matches.[62] India progressed to the semi-finals during which Bhutia played in the 1–0 win over the Maldives.[62] The final was a repeat of the 1999 final, as Bangladesh were the opposition, and once again India triumphed 2–0 during which Bhutia scored the second goal in the 81st minute from close range after Mehrajuddin Wadoo's 33rd minute opener.[63] He received the award for the Most Valuable Player and also the Fair Play trophy.[63] The 2008 SAFF Championship started with a 4–0 win over neighbouring Nepal, Bhutia scored the second goal in the 34th minute.[64] It turned out to be Bhutia's only goal of the tournament, however he did have several chances to score in the semi-final against Bhutan which saw India win 2–1 to reach the final.[65] In the final India failed to defend their title after losing 1–0 to the Maldives.[66]

He scored twice in a 2–1 victory in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup against Turkmenistan to reach the semi-finals.[67] The Sikkimese Sniper scored a goal in the final against Tajikistan during which India won 4–1 thanks to a Sunil Chhetri hat-trick;[68] the victory also allowed them to automatically qualify for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.[69] He was also selected as the most valuable player of the tournament, finishing with three goals.[39][69]

The 2009 Nehru Cup was significant for Bhutia as he earned his 100th cap for India in a 2–1 win over Kyrgyzstan, becoming the first Indian player to reach this milestone.[7] He also scored the first goal in this match to help the team recover from their opening day defeat to Lebanon.[70] In the match against Sri Lanka, Bhutia again scored an opening goal which helped India to win 3–1 and solidified their chances of reaching the final. He was adjudged as the "man of the match" for his performance.[71] Bhutia missed the final match of the round-robin as India were already guaranteed a spot in the deciding match. He was also adjudged as "Player of the Tournament" for his stellar performances in all of the matches, including the decider where they beat Syria in a penalty shootout.[72][73]

Life outside football

Bhutia with his wife Madhuri Tipnis at the Mohun Bagan Ground

As his surname suggests, Bhutia comes from a Buddhist Bhutia background, although he is, by conviction, an atheist.[74] The name "Baichung" literally means "little brother".[75] He married his longtime girlfriend Madhuri Tipnis, a hotel professional, on 30 December 2004 in his native village of Tinkitam in South Sikkim. His wife Madhuri gave birth to twins on 8 April 2010. The first one is a girl and the other is a boy. They were born in a private nursing home in Kolkata.Cite error: The <ref> tag has too many names (see the help page). His fictional hero is Howard Roark, a character from Ayn Rand's novel The Fountainhead, and he has a tattoo of a footballer on his arm.[76] The Sikkimese government has built a stadium, the Baichung Stadium in Namchi, the district headquarters, in honour of Bhutia.[3][77] He is one of the most popular figures in the state and is considered as a role model to many Sikkimese as well to people from other states of India.[78] On 23 January 2008, Bhutia was nominated for the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian football.[79][80] Three days later on 26 January, India's Republic Day, he was chosen for the Padma Shri along with national swimming champion Bula Choudhury.[81]

He played in the Goal 4 Africa match held in the Allianz Arena, Munich, on 12 July 2008, for the Edu team, led by Clarence Seedorf, and scored twice.[82] In 2009, Bhutia started a foundation called the "Indian Sports Foundation" to help footballers overcome serious injuries.[83] He is also the president of the Football Players’ Association of India (FPAI),[83] an organisation that promises "fair treatment" of Indian footballers by dealing with financial aspects such as pension plans.[84] He formed FPAI after seeing the Professional Footballers' Association in England.[85]

Bhutia is a supporter of the Tibetan independence movement

He signed an endorsement deal with Adidas India Marketing Pvt. Ltd in November 2003.[86] Currently he is endorsing Nike India.[87] After completing the deal to become the brand's ambassador for India, Bhutia said "I am confident that Nike will help elevate the sport in the country."[88]

In 2008, Bhutia was solicited to run with the Olympic torch in India, but he refused to carry the torch to show support for the Tibetan independence movement. "I sympathise with the Tibetan cause. I'm against violence but I thought I should stand by the Tibetan people in their fight," Bhutia said.[89] He was the first Indian sportsman to refuse to carry the Olympic torch.[89] His actions have won him little praise from his colleagues in India however, who criticised him for mixing sports with politics.[90]

Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa

In 2009, partnering with choreographer Sonia Jaffer,[91] he won the third season of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, the Indian version of the international series Dancing With the Stars. Bhutia earned Rs.4 million for winning the competition, beating Karan Singh Grover and Gauhar Khan in the final.[92] Bhutia donated half of the prize money to charity and the other half was shared with his choreographer; he also said some money would go towards areas hit by Cyclone Aila.[93] It was reported that an "SMS Voting Frenzy" allowed him to win after many organisations in Sikkim conducted mass voting events (this involved participants buying mobile cash cards so they could vote via SMS) to increase Bhutia's chance of winning the trophy.[94][95] This performance put Bhutia's relationship with his club Mohun Bagan in jeopardy, as he missed an exhibition match as well as practice sessions due to his participation in the reality show.[96]

Honours

See also

References

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