In 2018, my first experience with BA was during the Asia Cup in Dubai. While traveling alone, a group of guys noticed me in a BA shirt and asked me to join them. This experience spoke volumes about the "family dynamic" in BA.
Most people associate Bharat Army with the dhol, the atmosphere, and the chants, which are all true. However, there is so much more to it. The insightful cricket discussions with like-minded individuals, the away tours, constant networking, sharing the highs and the lows of the Indian cricket team, and most importantly, the people you meet along the way. There are two distinct experiences with BA that speak volumes.
During the 2019 World Cup, I attended every game. While sitting by myself during India vs. Afghanistan in Southampton, I did not feel alone. Every few minutes, someone from BA came to say hello and see how I was feeling. The fact this was an initial concern to the point where I probably didn’t spend more than 5 minutes by myself spoke volumes.
During Covid in 2020 when we were not allowed to see friends or family, the entire BA group was connected through WhatsApp during the India vs. Australia match. It felt like we weren't watching it alone, and in such a challenging time, this simple experience brought us together. As I mentioned above, from the lows of 36 all out to the highs of Gabba, we experienced it all together. For those moments, Covid has been forgotten.
BA is more than just a group of cricket fans; they are a community that fosters camaraderie and friendship.
I've had the privilege of traveling to different parts of the world to support the team, and every experience has been unforgettable. It has also provided me with amazing opportunities to combine my passion for cricket with my skills through podcasts, interviews, and more.
Being part of the Bharat Army has allowed me to connect with fellow fans and be a part of something truly special.