On July 8, 2025, Kolkata threw a big party for Sourav Ganguly’s 53rd birthday. Known as “Dada,” he’s one of India’s favorite cricket stars. From his hometown to fans around the world, everyone celebrated his incredible journey as a player, leader, and hero. Let’s look at the fun celebrations, why Ganguly is so special, and how his story still inspires people everywhere.
Kolkata Goes Wild for Dada’s Birthday
Kolkata, where Ganguly grew up, was full of excitement on July 8. At the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), fans and local players came together for a special event. They cut a huge cake with a picture of Ganguly waving his shirt at Lord’s in 2002, a moment every cricket fan loves. His wife, Dona, was there, and she posted a sweet photo on Instagram, saying, “53 and still my champion!”
In Behala, Ganguly’s old neighborhood, people decorated the streets with signs saying “Happy Birthday, Maharaja!” Kids played cricket matches in his honor, copying his famous batting style. On X, fans shared messages like, “Dada showed India how to fight! Happy 53rd Birthday!” The whole city was proud of their star.
Outside Kolkata, the cricket world joined in. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted, “424 matches, 18,575 runs, 38 centuries. Happy Birthday, Dada!” Teams like Kolkata Knight Riders shared old videos of his best moments, making fans smile.
How Ganguly Became a Cricket Star
Born on July 8, 1972, in Kolkata, Sourav Ganguly came from a well-off family. His dad ran a printing business, but young Sourav loved sports. His brother Snehasish got him into cricket, and it changed his life. In 1996, he played his first Test match at Lord’s and scored a century, a super rare feat for a new player.
Ganguly’s biggest impact was as India’s captain, starting in 2000 when cricket was in trouble because of a cheating scandal. He turned the team into a bold, winning squad. In 2001, India beat Australia in a famous match in Kolkata, thanks to Ganguly’s smart planning. His shirt-waving moment at Lord’s in 2002, after beating England, showed the world India was fearless.
With 18,575 runs, including a huge 183 against Sri Lanka in 1999, Ganguly was called the “God of the Off-Side” for his beautiful shots. He helped young players like Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni shine, building a strong team for India’s future. As captain, he won 97 out of 195 matches, making him one of India’s best leaders.
More Than Cricket: Ganguly’s Big Influence
Ganguly didn’t stop at playing. From 2019 to 2022, he was the BCCI president and started India’s first Day/Night Test match at Eden Gardens. He also runs things at the Cricket Association of Bengal and works with the Delhi Capitals IPL team, showing he’s great at managing cricket too.
Off the field, he’s a TV star, hosting a fun Bengali quiz show called Dadagiri Unlimited. Recently, he did ads for Netflix’s Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, dressed as a police officer, which got fans wondering if he’d act in movies. His love story with Dona, an Odissi dancer, is super romantic—they married in secret in 1997 despite family drama. Their daughter, Sana, born in 2001, is their pride and joy.
At 53, Ganguly stays fit by eating healthy foods like fruits and chicken and running or lifting weights. Fans love how he stays active and inspires them to be healthy too.
Tough Times and Big Comebacks
Ganguly’s life wasn’t always easy. In 2005, he had a big fight with coach Greg Chappell and was dropped from the team, which was tough. But in 2006, he came back strong, scoring runs in South Africa and proving everyone wrong. He also had spicy moments, like arguing with Steve Waugh or Shane Warne, showing his bold side. Even as BCCI president, he had tense talks with Virat Kohli about captaincy, but he always stood his ground.
Loved All Over: From Kolkata to the World
Ganguly’s birthday wasn’t just a Kolkata party. Fans in India, England, Australia, and more celebrated him. On X, people wrote, “Dada’s 183 in Taunton and Lord’s shirt wave are unforgettable!” In England, the MCC shared a video of his first century at Lord’s. In Australia, fans remembered his 144 in Brisbane in 2003, a brave innings.
Talk of a movie about his life, maybe starring Rajkummar Rao, has fans excited. His ₹634 crore wealth, with a ₹40 crore Kolkata home and fancy cars like a Mercedes, shows his success, but his kind nature keeps him close to fans.
Why Dada Is Still a Hero
Ganguly’s story is about more than 18,575 runs or 97 wins. He made India believe they could beat anyone. He helped stars like Shubman Gill, who he recently praised for scoring 269 in England, saying it’s the best knock he’s seen in 30 years. His bold style paved the way for players like Virat Kohli.
As Kolkata celebrated with cakes and cheers, and fans worldwide shared love online, Ganguly’s 53rd birthday showed he’s still the heart of cricket. From Lord’s to TV screens, Dada’s journey is about courage, leadership, and love for the game. At 53, he’s still India’s “Maharaja,” and his story will shine forever.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 10:46 am by Chandini Naidu Kotikalapudi | Published by: Chandini Naidu Kotikalapudi on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 10:46 am | News Categories: News
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