Papa is my superman: Suryakumar Yadav's speech at father's retirement goes viral

India Today

29-05-2025

India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, made his father's retirement ceremony a truly memorable occasion, blending humour, affection, and nostalgia in a speech that touched the hearts of many. Sharing poignant anecdotes and playful quips, he entertained the large gathering that had come to honour Ashok Kumar Yadav, who retired after a distinguished career as a scientist at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).advertisementClad in a formal shirt and trousers, Suryakumar appeared visibly moved by the overwhelming show of respect and love for his father. Despite his demanding IPL 2025 commitments, the Mumbai Indians star ensured he was present for this momentous day in his family's life.In his uniquely humorous style, Suryakumar offered his best wishes to his father and made a touching promise on behalf of the entire family-his mother and sister included. With a smile, he suggested that Ashok Yadav might not miss his workplace too dearly, assuring him that his "second innings" at home would be even sweeter.
A short video clip of Suryakumar's speech soon went viral on social media, capturing widespread admiration. On Thursday, 29 April, he also shared a heartfelt note and photographs from the farewell, paying tribute to his father's remarkable journey.advertisement"They were playing some beautiful videos on the screen. I didn't even know he could sing so well! I've never seen him sing. But clearly, when my sister and I weren't around, he must've sung some lovely songs for my mother," he said, to roars of laughter from the audience."Now you've got all the time in the world to entertain Mum," he added with a grin."They say every beautiful journey must come to an end. Yours has been nothing short of a fairytale. You've had wonderful friends and people who truly cared for you. And though this chapter is ending, I promise-we'll do our best to make your second innings just as magical," he said.Suryakumar Yadav Giving beautiful speech on his father retirement day. pic.twitter.com/hl345SPMZq— (@rushiii_12) May 29, 2025YOU ARE MY SUPERMAN: SURYAKUMARSuryakumar also paid tribute to the unwavering support his father had given him throughout his cricketing career, describing Ashok Yadav as his personal Superman."There's always that one inspiring figure, like a Superman, who shows you how to live and learn. For me, that figure is my papa. From the very start, he's stood by me," he said."I had no idea where my journey would lead, but he was there at every single step-packing my tiffin, dropping me at school so I wouldn't bunk, escorting me to college to make sure I didn't scale the walls and disappear," he said, drawing smiles from the crowd.
He went on to highlight the values he had learned from his father: the importance of not bringing work pressures home, and treating everyone with kindness and equality. "No matter what happened at work, he never let it affect his behaviour at home. That's something I truly admire and try to follow myself."He ended his tribute with a touching farewell:"I just want to wish him the very best for this new chapter. I hope he can now give all his time to us. My mother, who has been his pillar of strength, will finally get to enjoy this phase with him. I just want to say one thing: Aao, let's go back home."At 34, Suryakumar Yadav is enjoying a spectacular run in IPL 2025. The dynamic middle-order batsman has amassed 640 runs in 14 matches-his highest tally in an IPL season-playing a pivotal role in Mumbai Indians' march to the playoffs.advertisementSince his India debut in 2021, Suryakumar has been an integral part of the national side. He played a crucial role in India's T20 World Cup triumph in 2024. Following Rohit Sharma's retirement from T20Is, Suryakumar took over as captain and is expected to lead India into the next T20 World Cup.Stay updated on IPL 2025 with India Today! Get match schedules, team squads, live score, and the latest IPL points table for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Plus, keep track of the top contenders for the IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap. Don't miss a moment!
IN THIS STORY#IPL 2025