Buddha Boys

I was surfng channels when I passed by Discovery channel and their feature documentary-Buddha Boys! Yup this is Shaolin Soccer in real life…I enjoyed watching it- it was like a therapy after a day’s work (though retail therapy is still the best!). It was kinda odd seeing these monks playing world cup fever but hey, change is always welcome.
But some people are not happy about the commercialized form. But those at the heart of its culture -do not view it that way. Nor do its far-flung adherents.
In China, where Shaolin soccer originated and evolved, it is perceived as providing a release from a painful, poverty-ridden existence or, more simply, as a means to gainful employment. It is a popular alternative to universities. The Shaolin path also leads to work as bodyguards, policemen, and trainers. If an adept practitioner is really lucky and personable, he might land film and TV roles.