On a day rich with nostalgia and sporting heritage, Soha Ali Khan, Bollywood actress and author, paid tribute to her late father, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, on his birth anniversary. The actress, currently vacationing in Australia with her husband, actor Kunal Kemmu, and their daughter Inaaya, made a poignant visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)—a venue that holds a significant place not only in cricket history but also in the hearts of the Pataudi family.
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, affectionately known by his moniker ‘Tiger’ in cricketing circles, left an indelible mark on Indian cricket before his demise in 2011. His legacy is etched not just through the myriad of runs and catches but through the courageous spirit with which he played the game. On his birth anniversary, his family’s gesture of visiting the MCG was symbolic, reflecting respect and continued admiration for Pataudi’s achievements on the field.
Taking to social media, Soha Ali Khan shared memories of her father’s remarkable innings at the MCG, posting images of their family at the iconic stadium, alongside a vintage photo of Pataudi playing at the same ground. In her heartfelt Instagram caption, she wrote, “It seemed only fitting to remember and celebrate Abba on his birthday today by visiting one of his favourite places to play – The Melbourne Cricket Ground.”
It was at the MCG in the 1967-68 series where Pataudi, despite being hamstrung by injury that necessitated a runner, played one of the most gutsy innings in test cricket. Facing a dire situation with India faltering at 25 for 5, Pataudi valiantly fought his way to score 75 runs in what Soha refers to as a performance “as good as any century.” His resilience and skill turned the tide, lifting India to a more respectable total. This innings, laden with hooks and fraught with physical limitations, was later celebrated as the No. 14 top Indian test innings by Wisden Asia Cricket, known as “An innings played with one leg and one eye.”
Pataudi’s cricketing prowess was acknowledged early in his career. At just 21 years old, he took on the mantle of captain of the Indian cricket team, subsequently opening a new chapter in Indian cricket leadership. Celebrated for his exceptional fielding, John Arlott, a renowned commentator, and Ted Dexter, former England captain, both hailed him as the “best fielder in the world.” Pataudi’s talent and leadership were later recognized with accolades including the Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and the CK Nayudu Award.
Outside the boundaries of cricket, Pataudi’s life was just as storied. In 1968, he married Sharmila Tagore, an acclaimed actress of her time. Their union produced three children, Saif Ali Khan, now a major figure in Bollywood, Saba Ali Khan, a jewelry designer, and Soha Ali Khan, who followed her mother’s footsteps into acting and authored several books. The family’s artistic and cultural impact has continued to grow, with additional members such as Kareena Kapoor Khan, Pataudi’s daughter-in-law, and Sara Ali Khan, his granddaughter, both established in the Indian film industry. Kunal Kemmu, married to Soha, adds another dimension to the film connection of the Pataudi family.
The visit to the MCG by Soha Ali Khan and her family serves more than just a personal memorandum for the Pataudis; it is a reminder of the legendary sports figures that have shaped Indian cricket’s narrative. Pataudi’s story of fighting adverse conditions to emerge victorious resonates beyond cricket, showcasing the indefatigable human spirit. As his legacy persists through the generations, it’s clear that both on and off the field, ‘Tiger’ Pataudi remains an icon whose life and career continue to inspire.
