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September 5, 2025 – Baroda, India: Teacher’s Day, celebrated across India in honor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, became more than just a symbolic occasion this year for Indian cricket stars Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya. The celebrated all-rounder brothers chose the day to express gratitude to the man who played a crucial role in shaping their cricketing journey — their childhood coach and mentor, Jitendra Singh.
In a touching gesture, the Pandya brothers extended ₹80 lakh in financial support to Singh, a move that highlights not just their success on the cricket field, but also their humility and respect for the guiding hands that shaped their careers.
The Bond Between Mentor and Protegés
Both Hardik and Krunal Pandya rose to stardom from modest beginnings in Baroda. Their father, Himanshu Pandya, supported their dreams tirelessly, but it was coach Jitendra Singh who refined their raw talent and instilled in them the discipline required for competitive cricket.
Singh played a pivotal role in helping the brothers rise from gully cricket grounds to international stadiums, nurturing not only their skills but also their mental strength and resilience. Hardik has often spoken about how Singh encouraged his natural aggressive game, while Krunal credits his coach for teaching him patience and tactical awareness.
For the Pandya brothers, Singh was not just a coach — he was a teacher, mentor, and a guiding light who made them believe that their dreams were achievable.
Teacher’s Day Gift Worth ₹80 Lakhs
On this Teacher’s Day, the Pandya brothers surprised their mentor with financial assistance worth ₹80 lakhs, ensuring that Singh’s contributions were recognized not just in words, but in action. This remarkable tribute is more than a monetary gesture — it symbolizes the brothers’ deep respect for their guru and their desire to give back to the person who laid the foundation of their success.
The move has been widely praised across the cricketing fraternity and by fans alike, with many calling it an example of how athletes should remember their roots even after achieving global fame.
Reactions from the Cricketing World
The Pandya brothers shared emotional posts on social media, writing about how “a coach is the first teacher who makes you believe in your dreams.” Fans flooded their posts with heartfelt comments, applauding their humility and values.
Several former cricketers also appreciated the gesture, pointing out that such acts not only inspire young athletes but also emphasize the importance of grassroots mentors who often remain unsung heroes in Indian cricket.
Beyond the Boundary: A Lesson for All
The story of Hardik and Krunal’s Teacher’s Day tribute is more than just cricket news — it’s a reminder of the eternal bond between teacher and student. It shows how gratitude can transcend generations and how success is never achieved alone, but through the guidance of those who believe in us at the very beginning.
In a cricketing culture that often celebrates records and trophies, the Pandya brothers’ gesture sends a powerful message: the greatest victory is remembering where it all began.
Just like Hardik and Krunal Pandya began their cricket journey from the streets and local grounds of Baroda, today’s aspiring players can also dream of making it big through T20 Gully Cricket. The league has become a powerful platform for youngsters to showcase their raw talent and catch the eyes of professional coaches and selectors.
Steps to start your journey in T20 Gully Cricket: