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“Why do you want to write about me? What have I done now?” former Railways off-spinner Kulamani Parida, who has the distinction of taking 364 wickets in domestic cricket, asked in his typical humorous fashion. Those who don’t know much about him should certainly get introduced to this fun-loving cricketer Parida, whose story is a beautiful reminder of humility, dedication, and an undying love for cricket. Even today, he continues to lead an unassuming life, working at the Cuttack junction of the Indian Railways and dedicating much of his time to cricket.
Known for his infectious simplicity, Parida’s life is as much about service to the game as it is about personal contentment. On the field, Parida’s career was marked by passion and a fighting spirit. He spent countless hours at Karnail Singh Stadium, where his joy in every spell was palpable, and his commitment to claiming wickets showed his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Off the field, he embodies humility, riding his bike to work and to local nets, where he offers free coaching at the cricket center run by Pradeep Chauhan, the former treasurer of the Orissa Cricket Association. Parida’s selfless dedication has left a lasting impact on Odisha’s cricket community, and he is highly respected by current Ranji Trophy players and cricket officials alike.
One of the most memorable moments in Parida’s career came in 2004 when he was celebrated by his Railways teammates, including Harbhajan Singh, who believed he was on the brink of selection for the Indian team’s tour of Pakistan. But fate had other plans when Sachin Tendulkar’s influence led to a different selection.
Despite the setback, Parida holds no regrets and remains grateful for the journey, his ever-present smile reflecting his inner peace. He continues to embrace every opportunity to contribute to the game, a sentiment shared by his admiration for Pradeep Chauhan, whose open-door policy and generosity in supporting cricket in the state inspires Parida.
Respected not just for his exploits on the field but also for his genuine warmth, Parida is remembered for small gestures that endeared him to those around him, such as sharing his plate with journalists during his playing days. Today, he still goes out of his way to treat guests with the same hospitality, embodying a rare and timeless spirit in the cricketing world. Parida truly embodies the “team before self” spirit, a hallmark of his generation’s cricketing ethos.
Even years after his retirement, he carries this principle with him, putting the game and the community above personal gain. His dedication to nurturing young talent at the free cricket coaching center reflects his commitment to helping others succeed, much like he approached the game itself — with selflessness and integrity. In an era where individual achievements often take center stage, Parida stands out as a reminder of the values that define true sportsmanship. His respect within Odisha’s cricket circles is a testament to his unwavering team spirit and humble nature.
Parida’s journey shows how powerful the legacy of selfless dedication can be, inspiring future generations to prioritise the team and the love of the game above all else. “I am going to fast tonite. I am getting fat. You eat and that will be enough,” Parida said before signing off with a trademark goodnight greet.
