Harmanpreet Kaur: A Journey from Punjab to World Cup Glory
The inspiring story of Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of India's women's cricket team, begins in the quaint village of Dunneke in Punjab. This year, her parents, Harmandar Bhullar and Satwinder Kaur, celebrated Gurpurab with special significance, bringing along a yellow boy's suit that they had bought on the day of her birth. The suit bears the words “Good Batting,” which now seem like a prophecy, as their daughter led India to victory in the women's World Cup.
Harmandar, a former clerk, shared how he wanted to convey that daughters are as valuable as sons. He recounted how they dressed Harman in that suit after her birth and took her to the gurdwara to seek blessings. This year, they felt compelled to bring the suit back to the gurdwara, feeling grateful for Harman's success.
The Bhullar home was bustling with visitors eager to celebrate Harmanpreet's achievements. Her first car, an Alto, was parked outside, symbolizing her rise from humble beginnings. As relatives called to inquire about her return, her parents proudly shared moments from her childhood, including her admiration for cricket legends like Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar.
Harmanpreet's childhood was filled with dreams of cricket, as she often imitated her heroes. Her mother, Satwinder, fondly recalled how Harman would lead her friends in games, showcasing her natural leadership skills even as a child. This innate ability translated into her role as captain, where she guided her team to victory.
After witnessing their daughter’s World Cup win live, the Bhullars felt blessed. The emotional moment when Harman celebrated her victory by jumping into her father's arms was a highlight of their lives. They now aspire for her to achieve greater heights, particularly hoping she will secure an Olympic gold for India in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
The couple also has a powerful message for parents of girls: by providing support and freedom, there are no limits to what daughters can achieve in sports. Harmanpreet Kaur’s story is a testament to determination, dreams, and the power of parental support, inspiring many across India.
