Yuzvendra Chahal, the Haryana-born leg-spinner, may no longer be a regular in India’s international cricket line-up, but he continues to be a prominent figure in public discourse. From IPL achievements to social media chatter, Chahal has experienced firsthand the challenges of modern fame, where every outing or interaction can be misinterpreted and amplified online.
Speaking to India Today’s Salaam Cricket, Chahal candidly discussed the downside of constant visibility. While he has learned to live with public attention, he draws the line when rumours involve others without their consent, particularly family members. Even routine outings, like a simple dinner in Mumbai, have sometimes sparked unwarranted speculation, showing how easily personal moments can be misconstrued in cricket-obsessed India.
Chahal emphasizes that his family, unlike public figures, does not sign up for scrutiny and often bears the emotional brunt of online gossip. To cope, he has adopted a philosophy of selective attention: ignoring most rumours while staying grounded in the knowledge of who he is and the support of those close to him.
He also reflected on fan behaviour, pointing out that intense loyalty often leads to unnecessary hostility towards other players. Chahal stresses the importance of respect for anyone representing India, highlighting that reaching the national team is itself a significant achievement. He cautions against the anonymity of social media, which enables abuse and criticism without accountability.
Ultimately, Chahal’s approach is rooted in perspective, self-assurance, and empathy. His words remind fans and the public that fame should not come at the cost of decency, and that public figures deserve the same respect and understanding as anyone else.
