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IM Vijayan, the footballer India is proud of

Soda seller-turnt-Indian football legend Inivalappil Mani Vijayan has led the way for those who want to believe that nothing is impossible.

Vijayettan or Viju Bhai or Kalo Hiran, as he is affectionately called by many, after a highly successful football career, has been recommended for India's fourth-highest civilian honour, the Padma Shri award.

The former striker's Indian football story is incredible. It is a tale of talent and spirit to become the best.

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As a youngster, the Thrissur Gedi (Thrissur-born) watched games at the district's Municipal Corporation stadium alongside his father Mani who was the first football lover that he knew.