Diljit Dosanjh, the global music sensation, attended the Met Gala, and it looks like he did not just simply walk the carpet; he owned it like a true Maharaja, reminding us of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, the first Cricket Captain of India. While many were stunned, some looked behind the inspiration of the outfit. His team revealed that the inspiration behind the majestic Maharaja look of Diljit was a man who took pride in his roots and named him as Bhupinder Singh, the Maharaja, who not only ruled but also captained the Indian Cricket team in 1911 and played in many First-Class matches.
Born in the royal roots, Bhupinder Singh chose a different route for himself along with the royal legacy. He was not just was king in his blood but was also a trailblazer on the field. At the age of 19, when the rest were indulging in wars or the royal crown, Bhupinder became the first Indian Team captain when the team toured England in the year 1911. The 19-year-old led the side and has played 23 games in England, although none of those games were like official test matches; 3 out of those were first-class matches. His tour of England became the inspiration for Ashutosh Gowariker’s film Lagaan.
Between 1915 and 1937, Bhupinder Singh featured in 27 first-class matches and even represented the Marylebone Cricket Club during their 1926–27 season. In 1932, he was named captain for India’s maiden Test tour to England, but he stepped down due to health and fitness concerns at the age of 40.
Beyond the field, Maharaja also played a crucial role in shaping Indian Cricket. He became the founding figure of the BCCI and also suggested the name of India’s top domestic competition, “Ranji Trophy” as a tribute to the Maharaja Ranjit sinhji.
