World number 1 archer Deepika Kumari from neighbouring state Jharkhand may bring home a medal from the London Olympics, 2012, but very few people in Bihar are likely to remember her till the next edition of the Games.

Abhinav Bindra and Karnam Malleshwari, who won medals in previous Olympics, have already been consigned to the black hole of forgetfulness by the residents of the state capital (See graphics). The residents are nonchalant about their ignorance of the largest sporting extravaganza in the world.

“All your questions are very tough. Ask me about cricket. I shall be able to tell you everything,” said Shivam, a student of Sir GD Patliputra High School after giving five wrong answers.

Sanjay, the owner of a coaching centre, said: “The events would be held at a time when it will not be convenient for me to see the Games.”

Even Amitabh Bachchan carrying the Olympic torch in London on Thursday failed to spark interest in the Games among Patna residents. Shubham Singh, a college student, who knew a few correct answers, confessed: “The Olympics do not interest me. Cricket, which I find interesting, has not been included in Olympics. Why should I be interested anyway? It hardly matters to me.”

The indifference of the people was reflected by the sports shops, who store IPL memorabilia, but have given a wide berth to the Olympics. Asked about it, Tushar Chhabra, the owner of Chhabra Sports on Frazer Road, said: “No one is interested to buy them.”

Sportspersons blamed the government for not providing equal opportunities. Footballer and Arjuna awardee C. Prasad said: “The government has done nothing to improve the condition of sports in Bihar. The minister concerned does not seem interested at all.”

The Telegraph reported in its July 25, 2012, edition how the Patliputra sports complex constructed for the World Kabaddi championship earlier this year is in a shambles for the want of renovation.

Priti Rani, who won a gold medal at Commonwealth Powerlifting Championship, 2011, said: “People should open their minds to all sports, as India has a lot of talented players.”