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My Dad Chose Family Over a Championship
A tribute to the dreams parents leave behind
Work, Family, Scene: You can only pick two. — Ryan Holiday
My dad was a competitive bridge player with big ambitions. He was among India’s top players, with multiple national-level successes. Over the years, he won five Indian National Championship trophies and earned deep respect for his unique style of play.
But in India, bridge isn’t a career — it’s a passion pursued alongside a full-time job. In contrast, top bridge professionals in the U.S. can earn six-figure incomes playing full-time. Dad worked in major software companies, where a “9-to-5” job often meant 8 am to 7 pm, plus weekends. Balancing work and bridge was nearly impossible.
And then there was family.
As a kid, all I wanted was for my dad to play with me. When he traveled to bridge tournaments, I missed him. As soon as he came back, I hugged him and asked him not to leave again. I just wanted him to stay home.
Over time, he listened. He played in fewer tournaments and spent more time with me, putting his bridge dreams aside. Looking back now, I realize — without ever saying a word, he chose me over something he loved.
