Bharatpur, Dec 18: The journey of Indian Premier League’s (IPL) newest sensation Kartik Sharma is not just a cricketing success story; it is a powerful tale of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering belief. Once forced to sleep hungry and stay in night shelters due to lack of money, Kartik today stands among India’s most expensive IPL buys, after being picked for Rs. 14.20 crore in the auction on Tuesday.After his IPL selection, Kartik, with his parents, returned to his hometown, Bharatpur, where he was warmly and emotionally welcomed at Agarwal Dharamshala, Khirni Ghat. Prominent citizens of the city and members of the Bharatpur District Cricket Association (BDCA) gathered to honour the young cricketer whose rise has brought pride to the entire district.
Kartik’s father, Manoj Sharma, who earns a modest living, recalled the hardships behind his son’s success. “Our income was limited, but my wife Radha and I saw a dream — to make Kartik a cricketer, no matter the cost,” he said.
To support Kartik’s training and tournaments, the family sold their plots and farmland in Bahnera village. Kartik’s mother sold her jewellery, turning personal sacrifice into silent support.
One of the most defining moments of Kartik’s journey came during a tournament in Gwalior. Manoj accompanied his son, expecting the team to be eliminated within four or five matches—the only time they could afford to stay. But Kartik’s performance pushed the team into the final, and with no money left, father and son were forced to stay in a night shelter. “There was a day when we had to sleep hungry,” Manoj recalled. “Only after winning the final and receiving the prize money were we able to return home.”