I never miss any film of Akshay and Amitabh Bachchan: Satnam

Standing tall at 7 feet 2 inches, 19-year-old Satnam Singh Bhamara from Ballo Ke, a remote village in Punjab has created history as the first India-born player to make it to NBA, after Sim Bhullar became the first player of Indian origin to play in the NBA.
Taking things in his stride, the young hoopster spoke about his plans and things close to his heart in a telephonic interview from the US. Excerpts:
Right now, you are the toast of the world media and getting rave reviews for having made it to NBA. But deep within, is there some trepidation in your heart or the fear of slipping, especially with so much adulation coming your way?
I was barely 14 when I moved to the United States after being selected to get trained at the renowned IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Even at that age, I had no fear. What is the point of being a sportsman if you are scared of slipping? I only know that I will have to work harder than ever because that is the only thing I know.
Along with hard work and persistence, what has been your lucky charm?
When I left for the US, I prayed collectively to all the gods of different faiths. And I have resorted to this practice ever since. I think that has really worked for me.
Do you think India has enough potential to nurture players who can make it to major international leagues?
India can create 1,000 more Satnams if the right kind of coaching is given to them. There are strong players in our villages and towns, but they can only be discovered and nurtured by the right kind of coaching.
When it comes to top international leagues, there still remains a fear of prejudice based on colour in the locker rooms...
In the West, there are so many black players who wield great amount of power on and off the court. So, the onus lies on the player to make himself so strong that people think twice before passing a rude comment. It's all about inner power.
Is there a special person in your life right now or do you think a relationship takes the focus away from the game?
There's no one special in my life at this juncture. But I'm not averse to having a relationship. A beautiful positive relationship can, in fact, strengthen you as a person and make you even more focused on your game. I keep getting so many calls from India and here in the US too, so I have changed my number. I don't want a girl to become my partner just because I have become famous now. I would rather be in a relationship with a girl, who likes me as a person and understands my game and supports me.
What are the other things that you enjoy, along with your game and good food?
Bollywood movies. I never miss any film of Akshay Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan. These two actors are my favourite because they are great human beings too. I met Akshay sometime back and I'm his fan for life.