IPL 8: ‘We even prayed for people in Nepal,’ says Ajinkya Rahane
Mumbai: The Prabhadevi neighbourhood, near Dadar here, is illustrious for two possessions – Shivaji Park (for its cricket history) and Siddhivinayak Temple that attract devotees from across the globe. On Thursday, the gentleman’s sport united with the religious castle when Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane – who plays for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) – decided to pay a visit.
The temple premises, with security personnels and volunteers guiding disciples, is not prone to commotion at all but the popularity of the local boy-turned star shook the decorum.
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Along with teammates Abhishek Nayar, Karun Nair, Pravin Tambe, Rajat Bhatia, Dhawal Kulkarni, Rahane – flaunting the Rajasthan jersey – carried offerings for Lord Shri Ganesh (better known as Ganapati in this part of the country).
“Whenever I am in Mumbai, I visit Siddhivinayak. I believe in all gods and goddesses and he is one of them,” said Rahane, who is currently the Orange Cap holder in the IPL with 323 runs.
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But the right-handed batsman believes his personal performance will only count if it is for a winning cause.
“I’m definitely happy for my own performance but I will only feel good if it wins matches for Rajasthan,” he added.
Talking about the power of the almighty and the reason behind visiting the temple, the Mumbaikar said: “Since our team is in Mumbai for matches at the Cricket Club of India, we thought we will come and pray for better results. God’s blessings are important for all players. Our job is to play good cricket but the rest depends on God.”
(Photo: Satej Shinde)
However, the cricketers’ prayers were not confined to the sport. They also wished speedy recovery of the earthquake victims of Nepal.
“We prayed for everyone, even for what happened in Nepal. It was a shock to all of us,” said Rahane.
(Photo: Satej Shinde)
