Pasang Dorjee Tamang, popularly known as Saurav Tamang, has made us proud by being selected in the Under 23 Indian National Football Team as a winger. The 21 years old lad had already been a name familiar to any football follower in the region, scoring goals through big and small tournaments across our region and beyond during his starting years in football itself. Later, his promising performance and consistency got him to be drafted to one of the oldest and the most legendary football clubs in the country – Mohun Bagan. Saurav continued to prove his mettle as a solid player match after match, scoring goal after goal.
One of the brightest rising stars from the region, he is only on the start of his journey to achieve great glory, making the region and the community proud. TheDC sat for a short interview with Saurav to get to hear his story in his own words.
Tell us something about yourself
My name is Pasang Dorjee Tamang, and I come from Sahid Nagar, Siliguri. I am a passionate footballer who has been chasing this dream since childhood. Football is not just a sport for me, it is my identity and my purpose. Every time I step onto the field, I feel alive and motivated to push myself harder. The journey so far has been full of learning, challenges, and growth, and I’m determined to continue working towards my goals.
Since when have you been playing football?
I started playing football when I was just six years old. My early days were spent playing in the Sahid Nagar ground (4 side), where local matches and small tournaments were my first exposure to the game. That’s where my love for football truly began. Over the years, with constant practice and perseverance, I have been able to develop my skills and take my passion to a more competitive level.
What is the role of your family and parents in your journey as a footballer?
My family has played an immense role in shaping my journey as a footballer. From the very beginning, they have supported me emotionally and mentally, encouraging me to continue even when things got difficult. They understood my passion and trusted my vision when many around us saw sports as uncertain. Their encouragement gave me the strength to pursue football seriously, and their belief in me continues to inspire my journey.
How did you develop your interest in football?
From a very young age, I found joy and excitement in kicking the ball around. Football gave me a sense of freedom and purpose that nothing else did. As I grew up, I realized that this wasn’t just a pastime but it was something I wanted to dedicate my life to. I decided to make football my career, and since then, I’ve worked hard every single day to improve myself. My motivation comes from my love for the game and the dream to represent my country someday.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
There isn’t one particular person I would call my biggest inspiration. I have always played out of my own interest and love for the game. Football itself inspires me. However, I do admire Cristiano Ronaldo for his hard work, dedication, and mentality. His commitment to self-improvement is something I really respect.
As a footballer from this region, what are the challenges you had to face in your journey?
Being a footballer from this region, there have been quite a few institutional and social challenges. Unlike cricket, football does not receive the same level of attention, funding, or recognition. There is a lack of proper institutional support and structured guidance, which makes it difficult for young players to get the right training and exposure. Moreover, sports are still not regarded as a serious career choice by many people here. This mindset often discourages talented youngsters who might otherwise excel if given the right opportunities. Despite these challenges, I have tried to stay focused and make the most of whatever resources are available.
Are there any sacrifices you had to make to become a footballer?
Yes, I have made many sacrifices to reach where I am today. I had to stay away from home for long periods, live under strict discipline, and often miss out on the fun and freedom that others of my age enjoy. Life as a footballer requires constant training, mental strength, and adherence to a routine. While it has been tough at times, I believe these sacrifices are essential for growth, and I have no regrets about choosing this path.
Can you share your most memorable moment as a footballer?
My most memorable moment so far has been when I scored a hat-trick in the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) tournament final. It was a proud and emotional experience for me – a reflection of all the hard work and dedication I had put in. That moment strengthened my belief that persistence and discipline truly pay off.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see myself wearing the senior national team jersey and representing my country on a bigger stage. That has always been my dream, and I am committed to working tirelessly until I achieve it. I also hope to inspire and support young players from my region so that more talent can emerge from places like our region.
What would you like to suggest to youngsters who aspire to become footballers?
To all the aspiring footballers out there, I would like to say – work hard, stay disciplined, and always respect your elders. The path may not be easy, but passion and perseverance can take you far. Focus on your goals, stay humble, and remember that success comes to those who are willing to give their best every single day.
Saurav’s is a story that we do not hear everyday, but we hope that we get to have more and more similar stories to share from our region. We wish Saurav a very successful bid as a National Football Team (U-23) player and we believe that this stint will create grounds for him to step into the National Team in the very soon.
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