It's better to be unknown: Vikas

"It is good to be unknown," 20-year-old Asian Games gold-medallist said in an interaction at the Games Village here today.

"Too much publicity impinges in the private life of a person. I can't do normal things which people of my age do. I can't even talk loudly or criticise somebody because people and media will blow it out of proportion," he added.

But the boxer conceded that a bit of limelight is good for the sport in general.

"I am talked about because media has highlighted my performance and for that I am grateful. But beyond a point, I miss the simple enjoyments of life which my friends indulge in," he said.

About his journey to stardom, Vikas said, "I took up boxing at the age of 10 because most of my friends were in it. Basically this sport is considered to be for tough persons, so I also wanted to be tough and healthy.

"Don't look surprised but this is a fact that I did nothing extra, I boxed like any other village boy, I did not have any extra diet.

"It has been totally normal upbringing so far and that is why I am so grateful to God. Luck has been with me. God has been very kind to me. I have seen more hard-working players sitting out," he added. (MORE)