Spotted: Saina Nehwal in Hyderabad

Reader Saurav sent us this photograph from Hyderabad.

'Last Wednesday (July 1, 2009), I was elated to meet Saina Nehwal. We had been for lunch to a famous resto (Mainland China) in Hyderabad at Banjara Hills. We were having our food when I noticed her entering into the resto. I coudn't just believe that she could be so gorgeous (check the pic) especially after seeing her on the badminton courts (on TV),' writes Saurav.

'She was no less than a super model. Dressed in causal denims she carried an utmost vanity -- that was well-deserved. It was a pity that no one but me, in the resto, recognised her. Such is the condition of badminton in India. A player of her rank needs more ovation, especially after the senational win in the Super Series a few days ago.

'I went to her and said "If I am not mistaken, you are Saina Nehwal, right". Humbly she replied "Yes". Shaking hands with her I congratulated her for her Super Series win. She put a smile on her face and seemed relishing that win. It was a great win indeed. After Prakash Padukone and Gopichand, she is the only player to have brought glory to the country for her flair in badminton.'

'I had some cards in my hand and slowly I extented it in front of her for some autographs. My friends wanted some autographs and hence there were "some" cards. She took it and said ..ya.. these are really "some autographs". That was a moment of laughter. Then I took a picture with her.. it was a great feeling. Moreover, her humbleness, feet-on-ground attitude and a charming personality moved me. It was one of my finest days till now. I wish her all success in life and hope to see her sometime again soon.

'Such a gentle, humble girl who has brought pride to the nation more than once deserves some more applaud and recognition from the people. Guys ..just wake up and start thinking beyond cricket. It's a real shame not to recognise a famous personlaity like Saina. I wish her all success in life. Hope she would bring more glory to grandeur to the country in times to come,' concludes Saurav.

Thank you, Saurav, for sharing this picture!