Anup Das’ journey is defined by unwavering dedication, passion, and a deep belief in the power of hard work. From his early days in West Bengal to becoming a beloved figure at Jamshedpur FC, Das' story is not just about his skills as a masseur but also about the friendships and bonds he has formed along the way.

His journey began with athletics. As a young boy, he participated in shot put competitions, representing his district and the state of West Bengal.

“My father took me to school for admission and gave me a choice between swimming and athletics. I didn’t like the swimming costume. I liked athletics a little, so I decided to go with it.” Das recalled with a smile.

The start was challenging, as he didn’t win any prizes initially.

“I was upset. But gradually, the prizes began to come and I started enjoying it,” he added.

A humble beginning

His transition into sports therapy came naturally and he was encouraged by former Bengal Ranji player Wrichik Majumdar, who discovered his natural ability for massage therapy.

“I always felt that I had an instinct for massage. I could easily sense when an athlete’s muscles were tight, and I enjoyed helping them recover,” he explained.

This intuition for healing laid the foundation for his career in sports therapy. His journey into the field began soon after completing his 10th standard.

“I started working right after passing my Class 10. I’ve been in this field for 24 years now,” he said.

“My beginnings were modest, with just 20 rupees in hand. From there, I worked hard, steadily growing, and it’s my hard work that has brought me to where I am today,” Das added.

A sporting journey

Das’ massage therapy skills have taken him far beyond India’s borders. Over the years, he has worked with athletes from various sports, including cricket, table tennis, football, and archery.

“I’ve travelled abroad 33 times for my work, all thanks to my massaging skills,” he said with pride.

“I’ve had the chance to work with athletes like Dola Banerjee and Rahul Banerjee, and I’ve travelled to places like Turkey, Japan, and Germany.”

Despite the global nature of his work, his ultimate aspiration was always to be part of the TATA group. In 2018, his dream became a reality when he joined Jamshedpur FC.

“I’ve always wanted to work with the TATA group. It was my dream. Then the opportunity came, and our CEO, Mukul sir, called me and said, ‘You should go for it. If your work is good, we’ll see you in the ISL.’

“I began by working in the academy, where I received tremendous support for my work. I was thrilled, and then he told me he would bring me into the ISL,” he stated.

“One of my standout moments came when I travelled to Spain for pre-season and had the chance to watch the El Clasico. It was surreal to be so close to the action. My dream now is to work abroad and to represent Team India at the Olympics,” Das shared.

During his time at Jamshedpur FC, he had the privilege of working alongside legendary players, including Tim Cahill and Sergio Castell. Cahill, one of Australia’s most iconic footballers, brought a wealth of experience to the club.

He fondly recalled how, despite being a star player, Cahill treated him like family.

"He never made me feel like just a masseur. We would have breakfast together, and he was such a great person," Das said.

Sergio Castel also significantly impacted him. Their bond went beyond football, as Castel continued to stay in touch with Das even after he departed from the club.

"He still sends me pictures of his family and updates about his workouts," he shared, reflecting on the deep friendship they built.

One of his most cherished memories is when Jamshedpur FC lifted the ISL Shield—the club’s first silverware.

"When we lifted the Shield with Peter Hartley, I felt so proud, and I can’t describe that feeling in words," he recalled.

A friendship that stands out

However, among all the friendships he has built at the club, his bond with Jordan Murray holds a special place. Since the Australian forward joined Jamshedpur FC, the two have formed a connection that goes beyond the game.

“We’ve had a very good bond since his first stint at the club. Jordan Murray is like a brother to me,” Das said.

Reflecting on their friendship, Murray said, “After arriving and completing our 14-day isolation period, I met Anup—smiling and happy, like he’d just won a prize. He’s such a positive character who makes everyone around him happy. When I left Jamshedpur after that season, it was like I never left. Anup would always FaceTime or call me to make sure I was happy and smiling.”

One of Murray’s favourite memories captures their unique friendship perfectly. “I told Anup during the 2021-22 season, ‘When I score, I’ll come and dance with you.’ In the game against Goa, I came on and scored. I just remember his face lighting up, ready to do the ‘Nagraj dance.’ The same thing happened again this season,” Murray shared with a laugh.

‘Anup is loved by everyone—players past and present. He’s truly one in a million!” the forward stated.

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Das’ story is more than just about his work as a masseur. It’s about the relationships he’s built, his care for the players, and the positive energy he shares with everyone around him. For him, it’s all about making a difference in the lives of others, whether on or off the field.