A walk from Mount Road to Walajah Road during a CSK home match is an unforgettable journey and an experience that surpasses all expectations. The air is filled with excitement as Dhoni fans of all ages, passionately take over the neighborhood of Triplicane, immersing themselves in the excitement of the moment. Amidst this sea of unwavering devotion, flamboyant CSK super fan Saravan Hari, dressed in bright yellow, shines as the shining star of the day.
Accompanied by a united army of dedicated ‘Whistle Podu Army’ members, they march in unison towards the holy ground of Chepauk, their unwavering support boosting the spirit of Saravanan and his team.
Among these passionate fans, there is one notable person who stands by Saravanan: Nabeel VP, a soft-spoken gentleman from Kerala and a respected member of the famous ‘Whistle Podu Army’. Nabeel’s journey is more than just a cricket lover to a Dhoni devotee; He actively participates in charitable initiatives through the All Kerala Dhoni Fans Association, which eventually led to his association with the Whistle Podu Army and the remarkable opportunity to meet his idol.
From cricket lover to Dhoni devotee
Hailing from Malappuram, a district known for its love of football, Nabeel found himself captivated by the allure of cricket and the remarkable talent of MS Dhoni, during a high-stakes match between India and Pakistan – in Vizag in 2004 Second ODI. Dhoni’s breathtaking knock of 148 left an indelible impression on Nabeel, igniting an unwavering admiration for the cricketer. However, it was Dhoni’s winning performance in the 2007 World Cup that cemented Nabil’s devotion, cementing his status as a staunch fan of the cricketing legend.
Joining the Whistle Podu Army: A Journey of Fandom
Nabeel credited Prabhu Damodaran and Saravanan, the founders of the Whistle Podu Army, for creating a vibrant fan community for Chennai. Being a part of All Kerala Dhoni Fans Association, Nabeel collaborated with Whistle Podu Army to increase his reach and get involved in charitable initiatives. Nabil aims to spread positivity and support causes in the name of MS Dhoni.
“There was a time when people started criticizing Dhoni (2016) and started trolling him,” recalls Nabeel. We now have 17 units in Kerala. We do a lot of charitable work and that is how we are connected to Prabhu and Saravanan.
Over a period of five years, from 2016 to 2021, Nabil and his fellow fans organized charity events on Dhoni’s birthday and other special days. After the defeat by CSK in the 2019 final, he started the “Hungry Free Kerala” campaign in Dhoni’s honour.
Unforgettable meeting: Nabeel’s encounter with MS Dhoni
In a way, the fan army is not just about Dhoni or CSK; But goes beyond. However, meeting his idol was the ultimate goal for Nabeel and was determined to meet Dhoni in person, Nabeel embarked on a journey to Shimla in 2020 and his persistence paid off when he finally met Dhoni – a moment He says that every time he remembers it gives him goosebumps.
Determined to share his efforts with Dhoni himself, Nabeel and fans wondered whether Dhoni was aware of his activities. That’s when Nabeel came across pictures of Dhoni and his family enjoying time in Shimla, he got the opportunity to meet his idol. After locating the resort and purchasing a flight ticket to Shimla, Nabeel learned that Dhoni and his family were returning to Chandigarh to take a flight to Delhi. He decided to book a flight to Delhi and while waiting at the boarding gate, he saw Dhoni.
Nabeel says, “I took a flight ticket to Delhi and waited at the boarding gate and that’s when I saw him,” and told him ‘Mahi bhai, I am coming from Kerala’ and then he asked, ‘You are coming to Kerala’ From?’ And I showed him some files of our work and at that moment I felt like I was in heaven.
He said (patting my shoulders) ‘Keep up the good work’. Then I asked him for a picture in that file. But he wanted to keep the file as a memory. I give him my memento to autograph and then click a photo.
Nabil’s eyes welled up with emotion and he fondly remembered that decisive moment.
The Chennai Connection: Thala Dhoni’s Enduring Legacy
Nabeel talks about the deep connection between Chennai and MS Dhoni, highlights the city’s unwavering loyalty to both Dhoni and CSK, wherein even the slightest glimpse or contribution of Dhoni brings immense joy. Chennai’s love for cricket and Dhoni creates an atmosphere akin to captivating mass entertainment, making every match a colorful spectacle.
“The fans here are very loyal to CSK and Dhoni,” says Nabeel, “All they need is a small glimpse, that’s enough; One ball is enough, but we want to see Dhoni playing. For us, CSK games are like a colorful mass entertainer. Movies are two hours long, right? But it happens right in front of us for four hours; Four hours of entertainment. So we have enjoyed every moment.
Nabil realizes that Dhoni will not play forever, and is determined to cherish and cherish each and every moment in the presence of the great MS Dhoni. “This is his last phase. I don’t know whether this is his last season or not, but this is the last phase. So we have to make this season more memorable.