Dhruv Jurel reveals reason behind 'Jai Jawan Jai Kishan' tattoo

Dhruv Jurel scored an unbeaten 115 off 177 balls during India's first innings declaration at 503 for nine wickets in 138 overs on Monday, August 24, at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. He smashed nine fours and two sixes during his knock, finishing with a strike rate of 64.97. This was Jurel's second Test century, with the first one coming against the West Indies last year.

After reaching the milestone, Jurel celebrated by raising his sleeve to display a tattoo reading 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan'. The gesture drew immediate attention from observers, prompting questions about the significance of the tribute. Jurel later revealed the personal meaning behind the tattoo choice.

His father serves in the Army, while his grandfather is a farmer. The phrase 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisaan' translates to "Hail the soldier, Hail the farmer", making it a direct homage to both family members and their respective professions. Jurel's celebration reflected his deep connection to his family's military and agricultural roots, with the tattoo serving as a permanent reminder of those bonds.

"My grandfather was a farmer and my father a soldier. I don’t want to forget my roots and that celebration was for them," Jurel told the media after the end of day's play.

Devdutt Padikkal was the first player from India's side to score a hundred in the match, registering 117 runs. Jurel's unbeaten century came later in the innings, contributing significantly to India's substantial first-innings total before the declaration on day two. The two centuries helped India establish a commanding position in the Test match at the SSC Ground.

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In reply, Sri Lanka finished Day 2 at 8/2, having lost the wickets of opener Lahiru Udara to Prasidh Krishna and nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya to Manav Suthar. The series is poised at 1-0 in favour of India and the hosts would have to come up with something extraordinary in the next three days to level the series.