From Secret Elopement to Enduring Partnership: The Romantic Journey of Sourav Ganguly and Dona Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly, affectionately known as 'Dada' or the 'Prince of Kolkata', has captivated millions not only with his aggressive cricketing style and astute captaincy but also with a romantic life that reads like a Bollywood script. His journey through love has been marked by childhood affection, family dissent, a secret elopement, and a publicly discussed alleged affair, ultimately settling into a steadfast partnership with his wife, Dona Ganguly.

Sourav's enduring love story began in his childhood with Dona Roy, who lived in the same Behala neighborhood of Kolkata. Their families, despite being neighbors, harbored old grudges, making their burgeoning romance a clandestine affair. Sourav would often pass by Dona's house, hoping to catch a glimpse of her, and their interactions were initially subtle, like a badminton shuttlecock landing in Dona's yard, providing an excuse for conversation.

As their bond deepened, Sourav and Dona fell deeply in love, navigating their secret relationship amidst family animosity. Their first date was at a Chinese restaurant in Kolkata, Mandarin, a memorable occasion where Dona was reportedly surprised by the sheer amount of food Sourav ordered due to his nervousness. Their love blossomed despite the familial tensions.

In 1996, following Sourav's successful debut in England, where he scored a century at Lord's, the couple decided to take a bold step. Driven by their desire to be together, they eloped and had a secret court marriage. This hushed ceremony was arranged with the help of a friend, a fellow cricketer, to avoid public and media attention, given Sourav's rising fame.

The news of their secret marriage eventually reached their families, causing initial shock and anger. However, the depth of Sourav and Dona's commitment ultimately softened their parents' stance. On February 1, 1997, their families reconciled, and a formal wedding ceremony was held, publicly solemnizing their union. This marked the official beginning of their married life, celebrated with friends and family.

Their family expanded in 2001 with the birth of their daughter, Sana Ganguly. Dona, a renowned Odissi dancer, dedicated a significant period to motherhood, pausing her career to raise Sana, who also developed a passion for classical dance. The couple has consistently presented a united front, maintaining a private yet strong family life.

Around the early 2000s, during Sourav's peak as a cricketer, his name became linked with Bollywood actress Nagma. Reports of an alleged extra-marital affair circulated widely, becoming a significant topic of public discussion. It was rumored that their relationship became serious in 2001, with some unverified reports even suggesting a secret temple marriage in Andhra Pradesh.

The alleged affair garnered immense media attention, with some linking Sourav's fluctuating performance on the field to the personal turmoil. Nagma later addressed the speculation, stating that the relationship ended due to the immense pressure and the impact it had on Sourav's cricketing career. > "There was a career at stake, besides other things, so one had to part. One had to weigh a lot of things, rather than be on an ego trip and insist on being together." She indicated that she chose to move on to prevent bringing "misery" to his life.

Sourav Ganguly, however, has largely remained silent on the alleged affair, choosing not to publicly comment on that chapter of his life. Following the reported end of the alleged relationship, he refocused on his career and family. Dona Ganguly, throughout the period of speculation, stood by her husband, publicly dismissing rumors and expressing her faith in their marriage.

Today, Sourav and Dona Ganguly continue to be a prominent and respected couple. Their marriage, spanning over two decades, is a testament to their enduring bond, having weathered public scrutiny and personal challenges. Dona continues her work as an Odissi dancer and educator, while Sourav has transitioned from a celebrated cricketer and captain to a cricket administrator, most notably serving as the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Their love story, from childhood sweethearts to a resilient married couple, remains a significant part of their public narrative.