The Gavaskars and Chandrashekhars and Kapil Devs mattered, once upon a time. But now, it seems like long ago. Looking back (and front, and sideways), they did not really do a lot for me. Maybe the writers and singers did more. I cannot deny the role that Hindi film music and particular singers or composers played in shaping my life-life consists of everything you do, not just work. Same with some authors that I admired.
Admiration is one thing, but the impact they have, in general, on your life is quite low. On the other hand, a friend, or a teacher or a mentor (a non-celebrity mentor, I might add), may end up impacting your life a lot more. One reason, obviously, is you see them more often. Second, they may genuinely wish you well.
This is not a rant about any particular celeb- sports star, or film star, but a general observation. Make what you will of it. I am more impressed by the boy or girl next door than all the big names put together. To use names from films as an illustration, an Amol Palekar, rather than a Bachchan.
