An intimate gathering of family and friends, cherished teammates, revered mentors and well-wishers convened tonight at The Quorum, Mumbai, to celebrate the official launch of “The Diary Of A Cricketer’s Wife”. Authored by Puja Pujara (with Namita Kala), the memoir is extremely unique as it’s a rare instance of a sportsman’s better half presenting his story in her words. Offering a rare window into the mind of one of India’s most unique batsmen, the memoir delves into Cheteshwar’s formative years, the battles on and off the field, the dedication and sacrifices behind the scenes, and the resilience and passion that define Cheteshwar as well as the couples enduring love and commitment to each other.
The launch event was marked by an atmosphere of camaraderie and warmth, with Cheteshwar’s long time teammate Rohit Sharma, and former coach and mentor Anil Kumble sharing anecdotes and reflections of Cheteshwar’s cricketing career thus far and highlighting and recognising the invaluable, and often unrecognised, roles their wives and families play behind the scenes allowing them to succeed on the field. Adding a special touch to the occasion was the presence of Chetana Kumble – who along withPuja Pujara provided unique perspectiveson what it takes to be a wife of a cricketer in a nation obsessed with the game.
(Left ti Right): Cheteshwar Pujara, Puja Pabari author, Chetana Kumble, Anil Kumble, Rohit Sharma, Ritika Sajdeh, and Manish Batavia at the launch of the book ‘The Diary Of A Cricketer’s Wife’ in Mumbai on Thursday.
“Crafting this memoir has been an incredible journey in itself,” remarked Puja Pujara,author of the book,during the evening’s proceedings. “Recounting both the special and painful memories from Cheteshwar’s career, reliving the struggles, vulnerabilities and triumphs, penning this memoir was a roller coaster in itself. I’ve been privileged to witness the sheer grit, passion, and dedication that defines Cheteshwar’s journey. While the journey is of a recognised cricketer, at its essence it’s a profound human story; and I believe there is something for everyone in Cheteshwar’s story, which is why I took out the time to write this book”
Having coached and mentored Cheteshwar, and spent time with the Pujara family over the years, Anil Kumble, reflected: I have witnessed how invested the Pujara family – especially Puja – has been in Cheteshwar’s career; and it’s heartening to see the entire close-knit family here to celebrate the launch of such an unique book – that provides such an honest and candid perspective of the personal journey of a great career”
Grateful for a memorable evening, Cheteshwar remarked: My cricketing journey so far has been as much mine as Puja’s – without whose support and sacrifices I surely wouldn’t have been to represent and perform for the country over the years. Its heart warming to see so many of my well wishers, friends, and family take the time out to be here to celebrate the launch of Puja’s book – one she has tirelessly worked to put together over the years. This is a great occasion to recognise and highlight the immeasurable role our spouses and families play, and am grateful to all of you for coming out and making this evening special.
“The Diary Of A Cricketer’s Wife” is now available at all major bookstores and online retailers.
About the Author:
Puja Pujara, wife of Indian cricketer, Cheteshwar Pujara, was born in Gujarat and studied at a private school in Mount Abu. She has an MBA in retail management and has worked in marketing and customer service as a manager in a multinational company.