In a country where, sadly, academics tend to be the means to all ends, the importance of sports gets lost somewhere during the crucial days of school and college. But it is equally true that a country that has an unfit youth is in fact an unhealthy and frail country from within. So, what can be done to inspire the youth of India to take up sports, not just as a hobby but even as a career?

Well, they probably need an icon who can propel their energies in the right direction and reestablish their belief in themselves as also their dreams. Farhan Akhtar is all set to do exactly that.

Farhan's unforgettable performances in movies like 'Zindagi na Milegi Dobara' and 'Rockstar' that has helped him strike a cord with the youth of the country, thus making him immensely popular with them. It is for this reason coupled with the fact that 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' aided Farhan in getting his body into perfect shape that has done the trick for the rockstar.

Farhan has been chosen to be the face of the sports channel, ESPN Star Sports (ESS). A source close to Farhan reveals, "The channel was looking for a personality who is determined and focused, and looking at Farhan's career graph and versatility, he was chosen. It was Farhan's dedication while working on the character of Milkha Singh that also worked in his favor."

In the promos that have already started being aired on television, Farhan can be seen paying homage to the sporting stars from both the yesteryears as well as those who are currently in action. He will also egg on the younger generation to be involved in sports.

The source further adds, "Farhan was more than happy to be the face of this promo. One of the key reasons he was chosen was because he is truly passionate about sports and has intense determination."

According to a source, "The promo is a motivational and emotional message to the sporting heroes of the country. It is also an encouraging appeal to this billion-strong country to step up, fight and never give up on believing in the power of dreams."

The forthcoming 'Olympics', promise to be the next big thing in the field of sports that the entire world will be keenly watching. It is this event that ESS wishes to cash upon. Here in India, the channel starts by making an attempt at popularizing sports with the youth of the nation.