He has been involved in football since his school days. Encouraged by father and grandfather, first played in the neighborhood field, then gradually participated in school level tournaments. Due to his talent, he has crossed the block and district level and played for various teams in the state. Santu has got the opportunity to play in different parts of the state beyond the boundaries of the village, which is one of the proudest chapters of his life.

Santu did not cut ties with the field after his playing career. Instead, he himself came forward to take responsibility of managing the game to maintain the proper rules and discipline of the game. He has been working as a football referee for the past five years after passing the appropriate examination. Santu Mondal is sometimes serving as the chief referee, sometimes as a linesman. Keen vision, unbiased decisions and strict adherence to rules—these qualities he is respected by players and organizers alike.

Apart from serving as a civic volunteer associated with the police, Santu found time to rush to the football field. The pressure of duty, the responsibility of the family – despite everything, the pull for the game brought him back to the field again and again. This journey of Santu Mandal proves that if there is desire and dedication, a judge worthy of the field can emerge from the village. His story is undoubtedly an inspiration to today’s generation.