Harbhajan Singh Unveils The Story Behind His Nickname 'Bhajji'

Harbhajan Singh, the former Indian off-spinner, shared the story behind his nickname 'Bhajji' on 'Bluntly Streaming by Sumedha'. When asked by host Sumedha Malhotra about who first called him Bhajji, Harbhajan mentioned that it was former wicketkeeper-batter Nayan Mongia who coined the nickname.

Harbhajan Singh elaborated on how cricket is akin to a religion in India. He noted that cricketers are both revered and criticised. According to him, every child in India aspires to be a cricketer, and even if they don't play, they watch the game with great enthusiasm.

"Cricket is a religion in this country. You're worshipped and cursed. I can't say what's different, but it's very popular. Every child wants to be a cricketer, every family dreams of it. Even if the child doesn't want to be a cricketer, they'll watch cricket. The game's love is long-standing," Harbhajan Singh told.

He also discussed his other nickname 'Terminator', which originated during Australia's 2001 tour of India. The Australian media gave him this moniker after he took 32 wickets in just three matches during the series. His memorable hat-trick at Eden Gardens in Kolkata happened during this period.

"Probably Nayan Mongia. Once it caught on, everyone called me Bhajji. Google it, and you get either vegetables or my photos," Harbhajan said about his nicknames. "The Australian media coined it, linking my turban with the 'Terminator'," he added.

Harbhajan Singh also spoke about the immense love fans have for cricket and its players. He credited his entire existence and recognition to cricket. He observed that while people rarely pray for each other nowadays, they fervently pray for the Indian cricket team during matches.

"People's love for the game is immense. My existence is due to cricket. Without cricket, I am nothing. Cricket has given us love and recognition. Who prays for others nowadays? But when India plays, people pray. Their prayers make us feel responsible to perform and win for them."

These insights from Harbhajan Singh highlight not only his personal journey but also the deep connection between cricket and its fans in India.