India batting great and current men's team head coach Rahul Dravid turned 51 today. 'The Great Wall of India' was born on this day, January 11, in 1973. In this story, we retell his love story with wife Vijeta. And introduce his lovely family to the world. Read on.
Born in 1976, Vijeta Pendharkar is three years junior to the renowned cricketer Rahul Dravid. Her father, a retired Wing Commander, and her mother, a dietician, formed the backdrop of her upbringing. (Image: X)
The nomadic lifestyle dictated by her father's military service played a pivotal role in fostering the connection between Rahul and Vijeta. Frequent relocations characterized her early life until her family eventually settled in Nagpur after her father's retirement. In November 2002, Vijeta achieved her Medical Surgeon (General) degree from Nagpur, marking a significant milestone in her educational journey. (Image: X)
The Dravids and Pendharkars share a friendship spanning more than 35 years. Vijeta's father, a Wing Commander, had the Pendharkar family reside in Bangalore from 1968 to 1971, marking the inception of their enduring bond. Subsequently, Rahul Dravid's father, Sharad, worked in Nagpur, providing the opportunity for young Rahul Dravid and Vijeta Pendharkar to cultivate a strong friendship. (Image: X)
Vijeta's friends often observed Rahul's fondness for her, noticing his frequent visits to Nagpur whenever an opportunity arose. The three-year age difference between them didn't pose a concern for either the couple or their families. As their friendship deepened, the parents discerned their children's desires, choosing to transform their bond into a familial connection. Swiftly, the couple's wedding date was finalized, marking the union of Rahul and Vijeta in a blend of love and arranged matrimony.
Although the date is not clear, Rahul and Vijetagot engaged just before the 2003 World Cup. The marriage had to be postponed due to the tournament in South Africa. (Image: X)
Rahul and Vijeta wedding was scheduled for May 4, 2003. The couple opted for a traditional Maharashtrian ceremony held at the Border Security Force (BSF) Training Centre, located on the outskirts of Bangalore. Both the bride and groom adorned themselves in traditional Marathi attire. The wedding ceremony commenced at 9:30 am and concluded by 3 pm. The couple today hhas two kids, both sons: Samit and Anvay. (Image: X)