Former Indian cricket board president who transformed the sport's financial landscape by securing lucrative TV deals and hosting the 2011 Cricket World Cup.
Jagmohan Dalmiya was a renowned Indian cricket administrator and businessman who left an indelible mark on the game. As the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), he played a pivotal role in shaping the sport's global landscape.
Born on May 30, 1940, in Kolkata, Dalmiya hailed from a Marwari family of the Baniya tradesman caste, originally from Chirawa, Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan. His father, Arjun Prasad Dalmiya, was a businessman based in Kolkata. After completing his education at Scottish Church College, Calcutta, Dalmiya started his career as a wicketkeeper and opening batsman, playing for one of the leading cricket clubs in Calcutta.
In 1979, Dalmiya joined the BCCI as a representative of the Cricket Association of Bengal and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming its treasurer in 1983. Alongside Inderjit Singh Bindra and N. K. P. Salve, he proposed hosting the 1987 World Cup in the Indian subcontinent, a move that was initially opposed by the English Test and County Cricket Board. However, with support from associate nations, the proposal was eventually approved, and the 1987 World Cup became a groundbreaking success.
Dalmiya's tenure as BCCI president was marked by controversy, including allegations of corruption and power struggles within the organization. However, he also oversaw significant reforms, including the introduction of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the construction of world-class cricket stadiums across India.
Dalmiya's leadership was guided by a strong vision for Indian cricket, focusing on grassroots development, infrastructure growth, and commercial success. He believed in empowering state associations and promoting transparency within the BCCI, often clashing with politicians and bureaucrats who sought to influence the game.
Jagmohan Dalmiya's passing on September 20, 2015, marked the end of an era in Indian cricket. Despite controversies, his contributions to the game are undeniable, and his legacy continues to shape the sport's trajectory in India and beyond.
In a career spanning over four decades, Jagmohan Dalmiya left an indelible mark on Indian cricket, transforming the game's landscape, and inspiring generations of cricketers and administrators. His unwavering dedication to the sport and his vision for its growth have cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in Indian cricket history.
54 Years Old
Former Indian cricket team captain and one of the most successful batsmen in the sport's history, known for his aggressive playing style and leadership that led India to several international victories.
85 Years Old
Indian Minister of Agriculture who played a crucial role in shaping the country's agricultural policies and is credited with introducing several reforms to benefit farmers.
