The First Ladies of Indian Golf

Some of them play golf, the others frequent the course nevertheless. But most of them are in full attendance when their boyfriends or husbands are teeing off on tournaments. Meet golf’s first ladies in India.

CHIRAGH KUMAR

{Wife: Namrata Kapur Kumar}

She is the ace designer, whose arm remains locked with golfer Chiragh Kumar’s when he needs her. Kapur travels around the country showcasing couture accessories and engages with Bollywood to wear her work. But when her husband’s on the course, she is by his side to boost his morale. “Although a career in golf demands excruciating practice and nerve, the travel is something to look forward to,” shares Kapur. Once such tournament was when Chiragh enjoyed a strong run at the 2011 Hero Indian Open where he led at the halfway stage before finishing second, three shots behind champion David Gleeson. Kapur met Chiragh at his brother’s wedding. “It wasn’t love at first sight but nevertheless quite a filmy plot.”

RAHIL GANGJEE

{Wife: Maithrayi Gangjee}

If the adage – there’s a woman behind every man’s success – was to be true then Maithreyi Gangee fits the description. Married to Rahil who plays the Asian Tour, theirs is a story of love on the course. Both met at the Tollygunge club when Maithreyi was learning to play the game. Within a year of the encounter they were married and since Maithreyi has been rock solid behind Rahil, inspiring him on and off the course. “It’s amazing that one can successfully pursue a career in something one truly loves to do and be his own boss. I do my best to make everything else in our life function smoothly and also make it a point to travel with him every once in a while and watch him play and spend quality time with him,” she says. While he drives balls to the fairways, it’s she who drives him around by being his loving chauffeur – whether it’s Kolkata or Ponte Verde. She admits the responsibility is huge, and that things can be a bit trying given the hectic schedule. “Being married to a golfer is not the easiest task, the hardest part being the distance between us. Having said that Rahil is a great guy and his love for the game and his achievements and future prospects make it worthwhile.”

SHARMILA NICOLLET

{Boyfriend: The Pink Man}

In case of Sharmila Nicollet although she has made headlines for ‘being seen’ with many attractive, eligible bachelors including Sidharth Mallya she continues to be official single. Unless of course we count this man who she decide to liplock for a pose!

SHIV KAPUR

{Girlfriend: Secret Story}

On the record he is always single and calls golf his only partner. But the golf world probably knows it and the grapevine is otherwise abuzz that a lady with Italian roots is his girl. Kapur spends much of his summer in Europe – playing the European Tour or The Challenge Tour. Now and then they are spotted taking skiing holidays as well.

JEEV MILKA SINGH

{Wife: Kudrat Brar Singh}

His elegant wife Kudrat Brar Singh is Jeev’s backbone and strength. She was Jeev’s childhood friend in Chandigarh and the two tied the knot in 2008. Jeev once said, “Kudrat has got me luck.” For someone who knew little about golf when she got married, Kudrat is now seen at many of Jeev’s tournaments.

SUJJAN SINGH

{Wife: Irina Brar}

When Sujjan Singh plays golf he can be certain one pair of eyes are watching out for him. Those of his wife and former golfer Irina Brar. Irina remained in headlines for many years for playing spectacular golf but now spends time raising their baby even as she trains select golfers for their mind games.

ANIRBAN LAHIRI

{To Be Wife: Ipsa Jamval}

Buddies for some time, they believe friendship is the cornerstone of marriage and so Anirban Lahiri has finally decided to tie the knot with the very lovely Ipsa Jamwal. She is a professional in her own regard and works at a bluechip IT firm. For Lahiri, being single has now no meaning given that he can actually enjoy travelling with someone he loves. They were engaged early this year in month of January. Lahiri was asked by golfingindian.com if he goes shopping for his girl when travelling on tournaments. Prompt came the reply, “I do not want to set wrong precedents.” We are sure Ipsa is listening.