How big can a persona be?

I got a glimpse of the same in last week’s IPL match at the New PCA stadium in Mohali.

I was there with my son to witness the match between Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings. 

I stand to be corrected – “I was there with my son only to watch one person!”

I am sure you know who I am referring to.. Thala/ Captain cool/ MSD/ Dhoni.

We had to walk the last km or so considering the heavy rush of vehicles. 

There were numerous vendors along the way selling T-shirts of both franchises.

I again stand to be corrected – “there were vendors selling only the Yellow T-shirts with Number 7 with an occasional vendor selling the Red T-shirts”

There was a big roar as Dhoni walked onto the field with the other ten players as CSK decided to bowl first.

We enjoyed the proceedings – the fireworks on every six, the dhol beats and the occasional comments by the CJ (cricket jockey!).

Punjab put up a very decent score and then it was CSK’s turn to bat. Another loud roar greeted Dhoni as he stepped onto the field to bat. 

The asking rate had climbed to unrealistic levels and the match was all but over. We still enjoyed the cameo played by Thala.

We were quite happy as we walked out of the stadium after the match – we’d had our money’s worth.

I marvelled at the love and affection which Dhoni receives in every corner of India.

What would happen once Dhoni eventually hangs his boots?

Would people continue to love CSK the way they love Dhoni?

Would people still throng in as many numbers to watch a CSK match?

What happens to organisations when individuals with a larger than life image call it a day?

A long way to go

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