Udupi: Indian cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav addressed media queries during his visit to the Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple at Kapu, where he denied any boundary line infringement during his crucial catch in the T20 World Cup final match, attributing the success to divine intervention.

Accompanied by his wife Devisha, Yadav recounted the moment, stating, "I hadn’t touched the boundary line while holding the decisive catch. It was all by the grace of God that I was in that place at that moment to hold such a wonderful catch." He emphasized the role of practice and faith, adding, "We practice to hold such catches during our training sessions. That moment was created by God so that India may get the cup. I had remembered God while holding the catch."

Reflecting on cricket's unpredictable nature, Yadav expressed humility, remarking, "A player cannot become a captain on his own, but he can choose to play well for the country. If God wills, your fate will be alright." He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support during the World Cup victory celebrations and his visit to Kapu, noting the unexpected turnout at the temple.

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Downplaying his celebrity status, Yadav asserted, "I do not think of myself as a celebrity. I came to the temple as a common man. One must lead a large life as a common man. The World Cup is just a part of life, not the entirety of it."

Yadav also shared a personal detail about his cricket routine, revealing his fondness for chewing bubble gum during matches, which he believes helps him bat better and play happily.

After seeking blessings at Kapu Marigudi, Yadav expressed contentment, stating, "I experienced peace after the pooja." He expressed interest in returning during the temple's renovation, if given the opportunity.

Devisha Yadav, his wife, expressed her joy after visiting Kapu Marigudi, reminiscing about their previous visit to Udupi and expressing a desire to return for the temple's renovation. She declined to disclose details of her prayers but expressed gratitude for realizing their dream of winning the World Cup.

During his visit, Yadav was honored by Kapu MLA and Working President of Kapu Hosa Marigudi Temple Development Committee, Gurme Suresh Shetty, acknowledging his pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup victory.

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New Delhi, Apr 3 (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddarmaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar met Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil on Thursday to seek approval for the Mekedatu and Upper Bhadra projects.

In the meeting, Siddarmaiah informed that Karnataka has the second largest dryland area in the country after Rajasthan. The irrigation projects taken up and being implemented in Karnataka have played a vital role in transforming agricultural landscape.

Siddarmaiah urged the Union minister to intervene in the matter and direct officials concerned to provide necessary clearances and approvals for the projects, according to the letter submitted to the Union minister.

The Mekedatu project, proposed near Kanakapura in Ramanagar district, aims to build 66 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) balancing reservoir. The project faces opposition from Tamil Nadu, a low riparian state, which claims it will obstruct the natural flow of Cauvery River water.

The Upper Bhadra project is designed to support irrigation in drought-prone regions of central Karnataka, covering districts like Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Tumakuru and Davangere. The project's progress is hindered by the lack of funding and the delay in declaring it a 'national project'.

Both projects face significant challenges, including funding issues and inter-state disputes.

Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti V Somanna and other senior officials were also present in the meeting.

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