How an ever welcoming city of Bengaluru played an important role in Devdutt Padikkal's journey

In a country where there is a remarkable diversity of wildlife, languages and food, a 22-yard game, as some say, is celebrated as a religion. The amount of passion for cricket in this country is incomparable and difficult to articulate. If it is to be encapsulated in a simplistic form, cricket is a symbol of unity in India, binding cultures and congregations together.

Devdutt Padikkal and his family moved to Bengaluru in 2011. Interestingly, the first thing they did when they arrived was to find an appropriate cricket academy. There are several avenues for the parents to enhance their child's vision, but it all stems down to the proportion of guidance they offer. If not them, then who? In a nation where traditional households place more emphasis on the academic front, Devdutt's parents were more than willing to help mould his dreams into reality. A decade after the decision, the youngster, with an aplomb characteristic, has significantly battled through the difficulties. 

The birthplace of an individual holds a special place in his/her heart. And, there seems to be a city that embodies everything and makes an individual feel one of its own. In Devdutt's case, Bengaluru had played a pivotal role in realising his dreams. The 20-year-old, showing reverence to the city, said: "This city has been very kind to me. Everything is available here. I am lucky to have found the right schools and academies to spur my growth. The first thing I did after coming here is to go to a cricket academy, even before looking for a school. The coaches suggested which schools would nurture my cricketing aspirations. This city has played a big role in my career." 

[TOI input]