I first met Arjun in 1986 at Tollygunge Club. I was on the 15th tee when Bindi Uncle called me over to introduce this young Sardar with an easy smile and a Ben Sayers set in hand. He was swinging freely, sending the ball in every direction, but there was something about his energy that stood out immediately. That chance meeting was the beginning of a friendship that has lasted a lifetime.

Even back then, Arjun had something rare – raw talent matched by a willingness to put in the hard work. I saw it up close in 1989, when we travelled together for a professional tournament at Bangalore Golf Club. I had just turned professional; he came along as an amateur. It was a rough outing for him, and I still remember the event organiser saying, “You are an embarrassment to golfers of Kolkata.” The irony is that years later, the same man would be on stage announcing Arjun’s many victories.

Arjun’s greatest strength has always been his self-belief. I have never met another Indian golfer who believed in himself as much as he did. His work ethic and focus helped him achieve something no other Indian golfer has done – winning on the PGA Tour! And it wasn’t just a dream. From the age of 15, he truly believed it would happen. There’s a big difference between wanting something and having that kind of conviction.

I remember our first PGA Tour Monday qualifier. We both played, and Arjun not only qualified, but also led the tournament after the first round. His mind was calm, clear, and completely focused. When he stepped onto the course, he simply expected to win.

Even today, you can see that same determination when he plays senior majors. He often finishes strongly, even though injuries over the years may have cost him some opportunities. One of the lesser-known aspects of his career is his commitment to the Bihar School of Yoga, especially Yoga Nidra. He never missed it, crediting the practice for keeping his mind steady and strengthening his resolve.

Arjun’s career has been a steady climb and his parents played a huge role in shaping that journey. They devoted themselves to supporting his career. He started with wins on the Indian Tour, then took the Indian Open, moved on to the Asian Tour, the European Tour, and finally, the PGA Tour. At 52, with many years of competitive senior golf ahead, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see him lift a senior major in the years to come.

For me, Arjun is more than just a golfer I’ve known since the mid-eighties. He’s a reminder of what belief, hard work, and quiet confidence can achieve, and how far they can take you, both on and off the course.