Sunil Kumar Honors His Mentor with Generous Gesture After Pro Kabaddi League Auction

A Heartfelt Tribute to a Mentor

In a touching display of gratitude, U Mumba's captain Sunil Kumar recently made headlines, not for his skills on the kabaddi mat, but for a significant gesture towards the individual who played a pivotal role in his career.

After the Pro Kabaddi League auctions, the talented defender presented a cheque worth Rs 25 lakh to his childhood coach, Bhupender Malik, marking a deeply emotional tribute to his mentor.

“Bhupender Malik is my childhood guru. He was the one who introduced me to Kabaddi,” Sunil expressed. The coach has been crucial in developing not only Sunil's abilities but also those of many other players from Panchkula. What makes this act even more special is Malik's dedication to coaching—he has been training athletes for 20 to 25 years without charging any fees.

The heartfelt exchange between the student and teacher was particularly moving. Initially hesitant to accept the generous gift, Bhupender Malik eventually relented, as Sunil insisted that this was more than just a financial gesture; it was a sign of respect for all that his mentor had done for him. This moment beautifully illustrated the bond between a devoted mentor and a grateful student, as noted in a recent release.

For Sunil, this gesture transcended monetary value; it was about honoring and acknowledging his coach's influence. He attributes his success as a defender to his guru, who taught him the nuances of playing in the cover position and helped shape him into a leader. “Everything I have accomplished in PKL is due to his guidance,” Sunil stated, recognizing that his coach instilled not only defensive skills but also the leadership qualities that have made him a standout player in the league.

This moment also underscores the transformative effect of the Pro Kabaddi League on players' lives. “Before, there was nothing. Now, players have money, recognition, and fame. The world is starting to know us Kabaddi players,” Sunil reflected. As the highest-priced Indian defender in the Panchkula 11 Player Auction, he is acutely aware of how Panchkula has elevated the sport and its athletes.

“I am very happy. I have shown respect to my guru,” Sunil remarked, his contentment clear. In a time when success can often lead to forgetting one's roots, Sunil Kumar's gesture serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness is built on the foundation of remembering those who supported you from the beginning.