Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, fondly known as the “Nawab of Pataudi” and later nicknamed “Tiger”, is remembered as one of India’s most charismatic and fearless cricket captains. Despite losing vision in one eye due to an accident, he went on to become one of India’s youngest and most successful leaders, transforming Indian cricket with his bold attitude and tactical brilliance.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi
- Date of Birth: 5 January 1941
- Birthplace: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Died: 22 September 2011 (aged 70), New Delhi, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown (lost vision in his right eye after a car accident in 1961)
Early Life & Family Background
Mansoor Ali Khan was born into the royal family of Pataudi, son of Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi (also a cricketer who played for both England and India) and Sajida Sultan, Begum of Bhopal. He was educated at prestigious institutions like Winchester College (UK) and Balliol College, Oxford, where his cricketing skills flourished.
Cricket Career
International Debut
- Test Debut: 13 December 1961 vs England.
Career Highlights
- Played 46 Test matches for India, scoring 2,793 runs with 6 centuries.
- Known for his stylish batting, quick footwork, and fearless approach.
- Despite losing vision in his right eye after a car accident in 1961, he remarkably adapted his game and continued playing at the highest level.
Captaincy
- Became India’s youngest-ever Test captain at 21 years (1962).
- Captained India in 40 Tests, leading the team to 9 victories, a significant achievement at the time.
- Credited with instilling confidence, aggression, and team unity into Indian cricket.
- Known for nurturing India’s spin quartet (Bedi, Chandrasekhar, Prasanna, Venkataraghavan).
Records & Achievements
- One of the first Indian captains to secure overseas Test victories.
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1968).
- Awarded the Arjuna Award (1964) and Padma Shri (1967).
Personal Life
Mansoor Ali Khan married Sharmila Tagore, a famous Bollywood actress, in 1969. The couple had three children – Saif Ali Khan (actor), Soha Ali Khan (actress), and Saba Ali Khan (jewelry designer and trustee of family estates).
Later Life & Death
After retiring, Pataudi remained associated with cricket as a commentator, writer, and administrator. He passed away on 22 September 2011 in New Delhi due to a lung infection, leaving behind a legacy that transcends cricket.
Legacy
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi will always be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Indian cricket. His resilience, especially after losing an eye, symbolized determination and courage. As a captain, he gave India self-belief, laying the foundation for future successes. His charisma, royal heritage, and cricketing achievements made him a cultural icon.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi called “Tiger”?
He was nicknamed “Tiger” for his fearless approach on and off the field.
Q2: How did Pataudi lose his eye?
He lost vision in his right eye due to a car accident in 1961 in England.
Q3: At what age did Pataudi become captain of India?
He became India’s youngest Test captain at the age of 21.
Q4: What awards did he receive?
He received the Arjuna Award (1964), Padma Shri (1967), and was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1968).
Q5: Who are his famous family members?
He was married to actress Sharmila Tagore. His children include actors Saif Ali Khan and Soha Ali Khan, and jewelry designer Saba Ali Khan.
