Dhoni the B-Day Boy, Ranchi Celebrates

RANCHI - Dhoni fans has double reasons to celebrate, India’s series win in Carribeans and the B-Day of Indian Skipper.

They offered sweets to his posters, gave gifts to his parents and many got discounts at the saloon he frequents - fans of Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 28th birthday Tuesday in more ways than one in his hometown here.

Though Dhoni is not in Ranchi, his fans expressed their love for him by offering sweets to his posters.

Born here in 1981, Dhoni grew up in Mecon colony. The ace cricketer’s father was a pump operator in Mecon, a public sector undertaking.

Many of his well-wishers presented gifts to his parents and other family members.

Members of the Dhoni Fans Club also put up big banners at many places across Ranchi, wishing him a happy birthday.

“We wish Dhoni a happy birthday and our hopes from him are high. We hope India will win the world cup under Dhoni’s captainship,” said Jitendra Kumar Singh, president of the Dhoni Fans Club.

The club is also constructing a museum in Dhoni’s name that will house photographs of important moments in the cricket skipper’s life.

Dhoni’s coach Jay Kumar Sinha also sent his wishes to his now famous pupil.

“Long live Dhoni and we wish him a long career,” said Sinha, who had suggested that Dhoni give up football and take up cricket instead.

The Kaya saloon, where Dhoni used to get his hair cut, is celebrating the day in a unique way - it is offering customers a 28 percent rebate Tuesday.