Saif Ali Khan recently unveiled a commemorative plaque in honor of his father, legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, at Winchester College. The ceremony took place at the historic Hunter Tent cricket pavilion, where Pataudi's cricketing journey began. In a heartfelt conversation, Saif described the moment as one of pride rather than emotion, noting that his father's records at the school stood until very recently and that he was likely the best all-round sportsman the school ever produced. Saif said, "He would have been very proud and happy. It was a very elegant ceremony in a very great school."
Close bond with his father
Saif revealed that he was very close to his father, describing him as always present, solid, and understanding. He recalled that his father offered insightful solutions to problems he discussed with him. "He was a class apart as a man and a great father. We all adored him," Saif said. He added that as he grows older, he feels closer to his father's ideals and way of doing things, though he fears he falls short. "He is my standard and benchmark of a man," Saif stated.
No regrets about not playing cricket
When asked if he had any regrets about not becoming a cricketer like his father, Saif was emphatic: "No regrets at all about not playing cricket! I played a lot in school and I have reverence for the game. But my life and world is very rich and satisfying: I wouldn't swap it for anything." He acknowledged that cricket was a significant part of his upbringing, but his passion for the arts, inherited from his mother Sharmila Tagore, led him down a different path.
Reflections on time spent together
Saif expressed gratitude for the efforts both he and his father made to go on trips and holidays together, though he wished there had been more. He misses his father's guidance, especially during important moments. "I'm very happy to be able to say I made an effort, and so did he," Saif said. Despite living in different cities, his father was supportive at many crucial junctures in his life.
