I belong to a school of thought which believes that people follow leaders who inspire and motivate them and set themselves as role models. This applies to all walks of life. Esp. the concept of religion in the world has sustained because of this and not because of its philosophy or mythology or legendary characters in the mythology.
The concept of Kumble is a role model for me and i started thinking as to why?
1. He is not one of the greatest spinners of the ball, and i would rate him below Murali or warne or any one else. So its certainly not talent. Also talent is god given and there are many failures despite they have high talents.
2. Not just because he is one of the highest wicket takers. People like warne and murali possesses talent that is superior to anil kumble in spining the ball and in variety. Despite that warne is never called a role model ever and am not sure if Murali would be called one. So its certainly not performance or should i say just performance.
3. Not because he was in the circuit for over 18 years. Surely its an achievement but anyone who is above average and physically fit can reach this status. Some one like ravi shastri had spent over 15 years and he is not even remotely put in the same league. So its not his tenure or a prolonged presence.
4. He is role model for me because his talents levels are a shade less but still he made it to the top league which is reflective of his passion, determination and hard work. Many could have equals levels of passion which may not be sustained over a period of 18 years with the same intensity. For me "Passion is what passion does".
5. Lets look at some one like Ivan Lendl who is in the same category as kumble based on the above point, but i would not put him as a role model. Its not the above 4 aspects which makes anyone as a role model. Then what is the quality that makes Kumble so great?
I dont have a single word to define (may be statesman like / ambassador is a closer word) that but its a combination of few traits like:
- Humility
- Respect for fellow cricketers and for the game (not many can boast of a bleamish less career and despite being at the top). I vividly remember his statement during the mokeygate scandal that "For the last 18 years i have never attended an enquiry session (with ICC) and now i have probably walked into the room twice after becoming captain".
- More importantly his ability to raise himself and his team above any controversies without succumbing to emotions at high pressure situations, makes him a natural leader.
The whole world is crying for leaders... not personality centric ( a pop star / sportsman being a drug addict... am not sure why he / she should ever have a following) but character centric leaders who can be a role model. Its a rare species in this world and its threatening to get extinct.
One of my most favorite quotes (again from thirukural) "Even if its not possible by god, (passion+hardwork) makes it possible" does not belittle the power of almighty but highlights what sustained effort can achieve. These quotes need some living examples whom we call as role models for us to believe in those words. Kumble is an inspiration to many of us!
Just like one of the corporate strategy states "Chase the market share, profits follow", people like Kumble are telling us "Chase your passion and not your pension".
Kudos to the concept called Kumble!
Happy reading!
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