Writer Sethu remembers Bishan Singh Bedi: A Journey of Laughter and Cricket

In the corridors of nostalgia, writer Malayalam Sethu fondly reminisces about his friend Bishan Singh Bedi, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, who passed away on Monday. The roots of their camaraderie trace back to 1967 during their training days at the State Bank's training school in Indore, where youthful exuberance and lifelong friendships blossomed.

During the one and a half months of intensive training, Sethu, stationed in Patiala circle, and Bedi, from Delhi circle, found themselves sharing a unique bond. In a cohort of young aspirants, all about 25-26 years old, life was celebrated in those fleeting moments. Bedi, already a star in the Indian cricket team, was a room away from Sethu. These were the days when open discussions were encouraged, and Bedi, with his characteristic humility, addressed his peers on the very first day.

"I stand here not without passing any test. All I have played is Test cricket; that's my Test," Bedi had said, leaving a lasting impression on his audience, Sethu recalled. Bedi’s entry into the State Bank through the sports quota marked his sobriety and dedication to his craft.

Bedi's charisma extended beyond the training grounds. Invited as a chief guest to local clubs in Indore, Bedi's friends, including Sethu, basked in the reflected glamour of his cricketing stardom. His love for Punjabi folk songs and an endless supply of Sardarji jokes made him the heart of every gathering. Evenings echoed with laughter, followed by serious cricket discussions where Bedi’s firm voice and conviction took centre stage.

Amidst their friendly banter, there were glimpses of Bedi’s soft side. Letters from his then-girlfriend from Australia were a cause for teasing among friends. Bedi, after reading them in solitude, would return with a smile, turning the situation into yet another jovial anecdote.

Sports showcase Bedi's remarkable skills. In table tennis, where the set point is 11, Bedi's opponent could start at 0-10 and still find it challenging to win against him. Sethu, astounded by Bedi’s abilities, often wondered if his arm could turn 360 degrees.

However, behind the jovial exterior, Bedi adhered strictly to his diet, following the coach’s instructions and the MD's special recommendations. While others indulged, he maintained discipline, a trait that Sethu admired.

These cherished memories have found a place in Sethu’s upcoming autobiography, ’Akkangalil Kothiya Aksharangal’, by Mathrubhumi Books.