Many times we make the mistake of looking at our idols, their current professional significance and the money they have and think that this is how they’ve always been. When in reality, most of them started from scratch, had to work odd jobs, network their way through a competitive job market and make immense sacrifices to get where they are today. Harsha Bhogle is one such person.
In the world of cricket, Harsha Bhogle is a very popular commentator and journalist. However, the beginning of his career was as humble as it could get. He recently shared the payslip from his first ODI commentary stint and he was paid Rs 350 for 6 hours.
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While living in Hyderabad, he started commentating at the age of 19 for All India Radio. In September 1983, he got his first ODI stint. This break was given to him by a kind-hearted producer at Doordarshan Hyderabad.
“40 years ago today. My first ODI. Still remember that young man trying frantically to get opportunities. And a kind producer from DD-Hyd giving him this break. I sat on a roller the previous evening, in a simple t-shirt, doing the curtain raiser. And got two commentary stints the next day. Over the next 14 months I got to do two more ODIs and a test match,” he wrote on social media.
Here’s a look at the payslip:
Have a look at his post here:
40 years ago today. My first ODI. Still remember that young man trying frantically to get opportunities. And a kind producer from DD-Hyd giving him this break. I sat on a roller the previous evening, in a simple t-shirt, doing the curtain raiser. And got two commentary stints the… pic.twitter.com/wV0bj382Xv
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) September 10, 2023
This story managed to inspire several people on social media who were reminded of the fact that every successful person today started from zero in the past. Here’s a look at some responses to his post:
These are some of the best stories, Harsha. Keep ‘em coming.
— Rohit Gupta (@roh1) September 10, 2023
This is so heartwarming. Thanks for sharing and reminding us that everyone starts from zero.
It’s easy to look at today and conclude that’s how it always was.
Go back to day 1 – that’s the real story. Today is simply a result.— Ankur Warikoo (@warikoo) September 10, 2023
If there ever is ‘Greatest of All time commentator Tag’ you are the undisputed leader @bhogleharsha . Best ever ! Thank you for making cricket viewing better for everyone .
— Suri Singh (@Suri_Sing) September 10, 2023
This is how memories are made 💐❤️🇮🇳
Wow
350 rupees at that that time ❤️
One of the greatest English commentators of 🇮🇳.
Love you sir 🏏— Dr.Anwar Hussain (@lkohospital24hr) September 10, 2023
Hearty congratulations sir! You’re one of the finest cricket commentators world has seen !
— Siddarth Pai (@siddarthpaim) September 11, 2023
So heartwarming and inspiring sir 🙏🏻
— SrividyaGanesh (@srividyaganesh) September 11, 2023
May this be the inspiration you need to keep going!