Comic Con and Cricket....

Dear Son,

Today, on this 19th of November, 2023, could have been a day etched in the stars for all of us, a day where pride and joy would have soared as our Indian cricket team had the chance to clinch the World Cup for the third time. Yet, fate spun a different tale, weaving disappointment into our hearts as victory slipped away to Australia's grasp.

It feels like just yesterday we were planning our visit to Comic Con, a promise to bring to life the characters you've adored from the confines of our television screen. The excitement was palpable; we had it all planned with Sourydipta Chacha, Pinky Maasi, Alok Mamu, and Mumma. Remember how you always admired Captain America? That was the highlight we couldn't wait to witness.

But then came Diwali, and with it, the unexpected storming of our team into the World Cup finals. It changed our plans. We adjusted, waking up early, hustling through our morning routines, eager to live both experiences. We picked up Chacha along the way while Maasi and Mamu made their way directly to the venue.

Comic Con was a marvel, seeing those characters materialize before our eyes, but in our hearts, there lingered the anticipation to rush back and catch the match live. We grabbed some food and settled in to watch, hope and excitement filling the room. India's start was promising, but the downfall began, wickets tumbling, and our hopes dashed by Australia's formidable bowling.

The loss, it shattered us. We knew it was just a game, victories and losses are woven into its fabric, but today, India's game could have been better. To remain undefeated until this final and then stumble—it stung deeply. Such moments, they'll come your way too, my dear. Moments where despite your brilliance, you or your loved ones might falter at something crucial.

Expectations weigh heavy, borne from love and trust. And in those precarious moments, be there for them. Sometimes, a defeat demands more than just resilience; it requires support to rise again. Despite the disappointment, remember, you are your strongest pillar.

Let's continue to cheer for India, shower them with the support they need. Tonight won't be easy for them; the weight of this loss will bear down heavily, with media, fans, and opponents alike scrutinizing every move. They need us now more than ever.

It won't be an easy night for any of us, the country mourns collectively. But in acceptance lies our strength. Hard work and focus remain within our control, but outcomes—they're beyond our grasp. I wish only we could command the results.

Hold on to your love for Virat Kohli, and in moments of defeat, remember to not just endure but rise. Love,

Papa