Jalandhar’s young cricketer Arjun Rajput has been selected for the India U-19 squad for the upcoming one-day tour of Sri Lanka.
Behind Arjun’s achievement lies a story of hard work by his family. His father, Hoti Ram, who ran a chhole-kulche cart until a year ago, now operates a bakery preparing and delivering kulchas.
Recalling years of financial hardship, Hoti Ram said, “Life was full of challenges. I took loans to ensure my children’s education and pay their fees while managing household expenses. But today, those burdens no longer feel so heavy.” Hoti Ram was speaking while on his way to deliver kulchas, a routine he still continues.
Arjun’s cricketing journey began at the age of seven when he joined the Harbhajan Singh Institute of Cricket in Jalandhar. Even after the academy shut down, those associated with his development ensured his talent did not go unnoticed.
Vikram Sidhu, who was associated with the institute, and trained Arjun, said he was determined to help the youngster continue his cricketing career. “When the academy closed, I made sure Arjun’s talent did not go to waste. I helped him get admission to a prominent school and requested the management to waive his fees so that he could continue both his education and cricket,” he said.
Arjun credited his family for being his biggest source of strength. “My family never let me feel their struggles, but I could always sense the sacrifices they were making. They only wanted me to focus on cricket and give my best,” he said.
Jalandhar’s Arjun Rajput selected for India U-19 team; father’s struggle fuels journey
