Cricket XI: A Playlist of Eleven Doleful Songs
What if we lost today, we will bounce back. Enjoy these timeless melodies.
The Golden Era of Indian Cricket
The year 1971 remains etched in the hearts of Indian cricket enthusiasts. It was a time when the Indian cricket team, under the astute captaincy of Ajit Wadekar, achieved the remarkable feat of defeating the West Indies in their backyard, or shall we say backwaters, and clinching a series victory in England at the Oval. This era marked the emergence of cricketing legends like Sunil Gavaskar, and the unforgettable performance of B.S. Chandrasekhar, who claimed six wickets for 38 runs against England, solidifying India's triumph. These victories not only uplifted the spirits of a nation but also ingrained a deep-rooted passion for the sport among its people.
The Magic of Radio Commentary
In those days, following cricket was a challenge of its own. The shortwave radio was the primary source of live commentary, with fans like myself clinging to every word, despite the fading signals and the juggling of time zones. The thrill of visualizing the game through the voice of the commentator added a unique charm to the experience, making each victory sweeter and each defeat more poignant.
The 1983 World Cup: A Turning Point
The 1983 Cricket World Cup brought a defining moment in Indian cricket history. The Indian team, considered underdogs, miraculously clinched the World Cup at Lord's, defending a modest total against the mighty West Indies. The iconic image of Kapil Dev's running catch to dismiss Viv Richards is a symbol of India's fighting spirit and a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the sport.
Evolving Relationship with Cricket
Over time, my personal connection with cricket evolved. While the excitement of the game's golden years remained a cherished memory, my direct involvement shifted more towards the organizational aspects of the sport, particularly in Amritsar, Patiala, and later at Mohali. This transition mirrored the changes in cricket itself, as it grew from a sport to a significant cultural and commercial phenomenon in India.
The Silence of Defeat: India vs Australia, World Cup Finals
Fast forward to today, the streets of Chandigarh and the Sukhna Lake bore a stark contrast to the usual vibrancy on a cricket match day. The World Cup final loss to Australia in a one-sided game left the city in a curfew-like silence. Even as a cricket enthusiast, this day was different for me. Unlike the past, where a cricket match would mean glued eyes to the television or ears to the radio, today was just another day, albeit with a quiet acknowledgment of the sport that once fueled my youth.
Cricket XI: A Playlist of Eleven Doleful Songs
In a parallel universe where my enduring passion for cricket remains as bright as ever, I've envisioned a unique way to resonate with the game's outcomes through timeless music. For our heart-wrenching loss today, I created a playlist of eleven songs - akin to a cricket team's XI - each reflecting the soul of cricket's dramatic narrative. The first nine songs in this collection are deeply moving, carefully selected to mourn and introspect upon a loss like India's today. These melodies capture the solemnity and contemplative mood that follow a challenging match, offering listeners a chance to delve into the profound emotional layers of the sport.
However, the playlist takes a hopeful turn with the last two songs, featuring the uplifting and golden voice of Geeta Dutt. Her timeless melodies inject a sense of optimism and revival, symbolizing the undying spirit of cricket and the anticipation of future triumphs. This transition in the playlist from melancholy to hope mirrors the journey of a cricket team - from the solemnity of a loss to the eagerness for the next victory. It's a musical voyage through the ebbs and flows of cricket, culminating in the belief that every end is just 'the end of the beginning', a testament to the resilience and enduring love for the game.
No1
No 2
No. 3
No.4
No. 5
No. 6
No. 7
No. 8 (Teri Duniya Se Door, Chale Hoke Majboor)
No.9
No.10 (Babuji Dheere Chalna)
No. 11
Conclusion: Cricket, More Than Just a Game
Cricket in India has always been more than just a game. It's a narrative of triumphs, defeats, and the passion that binds millions. While my personal craze for cricket has mellowed, the sport continues to be a significant part of our cultural fabric, shaping emotions and memories across generations. As the streets of Chandigarh return to normalcy post the World Cup final, the spirit of cricket, with all its drama and glory, lives on.
