Hockey star Hardik Singh revealed how people completely ignored the squad after spotting Dolly Chaiwala

While cricketers even those playing in the IPL are recognized by Indians throughout the length and breadth of the nation, the same cannot be said about champs from other sports. This is a sad reality, which has been proved time and again. The Indian men’s hockey team won a bronze medal the Paris Olympics 2024. Hockey midfielder Hardik Singh has revealed how his teammates and he were shocked to see people at the airport recognizing Dolly Chaiwala and not them. He said they were totally ignored as people flocked to get pics clicked with the man from Nagpur. Hardik Singh said it left his teammates rather embarrassed. 

Talking to SMTV YouTube podcast, he said, “I saw it with my own eyes, at the airport. Harmanpreet [Singh], I, Mandeep [Singh]; there were 5-6 of us. Dolly Chaiwala was also there. People were getting themselves clicked with and did not recognise us.” He said his teammates Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep were with him. Hardik said they began to look at one another feeling awkward. He said while Harmanpreet Singh has scored more than 150 goals, Mandeep has done 100 at global hockey events. 

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Netizens said this was truly a terrifying trend. A person lamented, “This is the beauty of our country, there is no value for talent here, that is why people prefer to live outside India.” Another one said, “That's really surprising! It just goes to show how much recognition can vary between sports and other public figures. It’s great that everyone is showing love for Dolly Chaiwala, but I hope the players get the recognition they deserve too!” 

Hardik Singh said that while fame and money did matter in an athlete’s life nothing was a bigger morale-booster than knowing that people love you and cheer for you. India has won consecutive bronze medals in the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. Dolly Chaiwala whose real name is Sunil Patil was clicked with Bill Gates of late. He is a tea vendor from Nagpur who is known for his flamboyant personality.