📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bollywood Hungama
Politics
From Sports Fields to Parliament: Punjab’s Veteran Athletes Win Seats in Assembly and Lok Sabha
✍️ Amar Ujala · Punjab
🗓 17 Sep 2026, 09:15 AM
👁 6
Former sportspersons, including ex‑cricketer Harbhajan Singh and hockey veteran Siddhu, have been elected to Punjab’s legislative assembly and the Indian Parliament, underscoring a growing trend of athletes entering politics.
Several former athletes from Punjab have recently secured positions in both the state legislative assembly and the national Parliament. Among them are ex‑cricketer Harbhajan Singh, who won a Lok Sabha seat, and former hockey player Siddhu, who was elected as an MLA. Their victories mark a continuation of a relationship between sports and politics that dates back to India’s independence.
The transition from the playing field to the political arena reflects how sporting fame can translate into electoral appeal. Party leaders have welcomed these personalities, citing their discipline, public recognition, and commitment to public service as assets for governance.
Analysts note that Punjab’s electorate is increasingly receptive to candidates with a sports background, viewing them as representatives who understand teamwork and perseverance. This trend may encourage more athletes to consider political careers, further intertwining the state’s sporting legacy with its democratic processes.
The transition from the playing field to the political arena reflects how sporting fame can translate into electoral appeal. Party leaders have welcomed these personalities, citing their discipline, public recognition, and commitment to public service as assets for governance.
Analysts note that Punjab’s electorate is increasingly receptive to candidates with a sports background, viewing them as representatives who understand teamwork and perseverance. This trend may encourage more athletes to consider political careers, further intertwining the state’s sporting legacy with its democratic processes.