Indian Sports Stars : Sports and politics may seem worlds apart, but in India, the two often intersect, as numerous athletes have transitioned from their sporting careers to impactful roles in politics. From the wrestling mats to cricket fields, these sports stars have leveraged their public prominence to enter the political arena, contributing to the nation in a new way. With Vinesh Phogat’s recent victory in the Haryana Assembly elections, she joins a growing list of Indian sports personalities who have successfully ventured into politics.
Let’s have a look into more details: Indian Sports Stars
1. Vinesh Phogat (Wrestling)
A three time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Vinesh Phogat made headlines when she entered politics in 2023. The wrestling champion successfully contested in the Haryana Legislative Assembly elections, marking her entry into a new arena. Phogat’s journey from the wrestling ring to the political stage highlights her desire to serve her community and bring about change at the grassroots level.
2. Gautam Gambhir (Cricket)
A two time World Cup winning cricketer, Gautam Gambhir transitioned into politics in 2019. He successfully contested the East Delhi constituency as a candidate from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Gambhir, known for his grit on the cricket field, has been a vocal advocate for social issues and has used his political platform to address various challenges faced by his constituents. Although he opted out of the 2024 general elections to focus on his cricket coaching commitments, Gambhir’s political career has been marked by significant contributions.
3. Navjot Singh Sidhu (Cricket)
Navjot Singh Sidhu, the former explosive Indian opening batsman, first entered politics in 2004 as a BJP candidate from Amritsar. After a successful debut, he later switched to the Indian National Congress and contested the Punjab Legislative Assembly elections in 2017, securing a victory. Sidhu, known for his larger than life personality, has worn many hats – from cricketer to TV personality to politician.
4. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore (Shooting)
Olympic silver medalist shooter Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore made his political debut in 2013. He won the Jaipur Rural constituency in the 2014 general elections and went on to serve as the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports. Rathore’s disciplined approach, honed from his shooting career, has helped him make significant strides in Indian politics.
5. Yusuf Pathan (Cricket)
All rounder Yusuf Pathan, known for his power hitting on the cricket field, also transitioned to politics after his cricketing career. A former Member of Parliament, Pathan has used his political influence to uplift sports and community welfare programs.
6. Mohammad Azharuddin (Cricket)
Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin made his political debut in 2009, winning a seat from the Moradabad constituency on behalf of the Indian National Congress. Despite his ups and downs in both cricket and politics, Azharuddin has remained a prominent figure in Indian public life, contesting in several elections since his debut.
7. Mary Kom (Boxing)
Boxing legend Mary Kom became a member of the Rajya Sabha in 2016. Her inspiring story as a six time world champion and Olympic bronze medalist has translated well into her political career, where she focuses on sports development and social issues.
8. Harbhajan Singh (Cricket)
Former Indian off spinner Harbhajan Singh joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and currently serves as a Member of the Rajya Sabha. Known for his fiery attitude on the field, Harbhajan’s political career reflects his passion for giving back to society and promoting sports in India.
9. Babita Phogat (Wrestling)
Like her cousin Vinesh, Babita Phogat, another accomplished wrestler, also ventured into politics. She contested the 2019 Haryana Legislative Assembly elections as a BJP candidate. A Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Babita’s political journey is still in its early stages, but she continues to advocate for women’s empowerment and sports in rural India.
10. Prasun Banerjee (Football)
Former Indian football captain Prasun Banerjee became a Member of Parliament from Howrah in 2013. Banerjee’s footballing career, which saw him represent India in numerous international tournaments, transitioned seamlessly into politics, where he continues to work for the welfare of athletes and the development of sports infrastructure.
11. Pargat Singh (Field Hockey)
Former Indian hockey captain Pargat Singh made his political debut in the Punjab Legislative Assembly. Singh, who led India in multiple Olympic Games and World Cups, has been a staunch advocate for improving sports infrastructure and has focused on public welfare initiatives in his political career.
12. Sachin Tendulkar (Cricket)
Sachin Tendulkar, the “God of Cricket,” was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 2012. While his tenure as a Member of Parliament was relatively quiet compared to his illustrious cricketing career, Tendulkar has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and continues to use his influence for the betterment of Indian society.
India has a rich history of sports personalities entering politics, leveraging their fame and influence to serve the public. From Vinesh Phogat and Gautam Gambhir to Mary Kom and Navjot Singh Sidhu, these athletes have shown that their commitment to their country extends beyond the field. As they continue to make strides in the political arena, their contributions will likely leave a lasting impact on Indian society and governance. Whether it’s advocating for better sports infrastructure, women’s rights, or community development, these sports stars turned politicians are shaping the future of the nation in more ways than one.
Read more: Rubina Francis – Paris Paralympics 2024: India’s First Paralympic Pistol Shooter to Win Bronze at Paris 2024
FAQs
When did Vinesh Phogat join politics?
Vinesh Phogat entered politics in 2023 after winning a seat in the Haryana Assembly elections
