Yograj Singh, the father of cricketer Yuvraj Singh, has sparked controversy with his strong opinions on popular films and actors, dismissing several well-known Hindi movies as “rubbish” during a recent chat with YouTuber Samdish Bhatia.
When asked about Aamir Khan’s critically acclaimed film Taare Zameen Par, Yograj did not hold back. Referring to the film, which focuses on a child’s struggles with dyslexia and the pressures of a demanding father, Yograj described it as “badi hi wahiyat film hai” (a really bad film). He further emphasised that he doesn’t watch such movies, suggesting a clear disdain for the film’s portrayal of parental expectations.
Yograj also reflected on his own parenting style, asserting that a father plays a pivotal role in shaping his child’s future. He remarked, “Baccha woh he banega jo Baap kahega” (A child will become what their father wants), further explaining how he steered Yuvraj away from his initial passion for roller skating in favour of cricket. Despite the tough approach, Yograj insisted that he never physically harmed his son during their intense training sessions.
Criticism of Bollywood films and actors
In addition to his dismissal of Taare Zameen Par, Yograj voiced his dislike for popular Bollywood films, including Baahubali. He bluntly called these movies “bekar” (rubbish), expressing that he doesn’t find Hindi films worth watching. His criticism extended to actors like Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor, with Yograj stating, “I don’t like Indian actors.” Instead, he expressed a preference for Hollywood classics such as Ben Hur and The Godfather, while admitting to enjoying the Punjabi crime thriller Kohrra.
Yograj also shared anecdotes about his intense parenting methods, including an instance where he sent a photo of his shoe to Yuvraj on his birthday with the caption, “I don’t think many achievements could have been possible without it.” While admitting to a tough love approach, Yograj insisted he never physically beat his son but used stern discipline to motivate him.
In a proud moment, Yograj recalled encouraging his grandson, Orion (Yuvraj’s son), to speak in Punjabi despite Yuvraj’s concerns that the child would be scared. “Now, Orion and I talk on the phone in Punjabi,” Yograj said, highlighting his commitment to preserving his cultural heritage.
Despite his tough methods, Yograj conceded that he may have been too hard on Yuvraj at times. Reflecting on his approach, he shared an anecdote where he admitted to Yuvraj, “I think I overdid it.” Yuvraj, however, reassured him, saying, “No, no. If you hadn’t done what you did, my story wouldn’t have been written.”
Yograj also revealed that many parents approach him to train their children, but he requires them to sign a document stating that he cannot be held responsible for any accidents during training, underscoring the rigorous and sometimes dangerous nature of his methods.