Dhruv Jurel reveals emotional story behind 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' tattoo and century celebration

Dhruv Jurel had a special reason behind his unique celebration after scoring his second Test century for India against Sri Lanka.

Jurel reached the landmark on Day 2 and immediately turned towards the Indian dressing room before flexing his bicep and pointing towards his tattoo. At first, it may have looked like a simple celebration, but there was a deeply personal story behind it.

The tattoo reads “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”, the famous slogan given by former Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1965.

For Jurel, however, those words are much more than a famous quote. They represent his family and where he comes from.

What does Dhruv Jurel's tattoo mean?

Jurel began Day 2 unbeaten and played a crucial role as India pushed their first innings total to 503/9 before declaring.

The wicketkeeper batter eventually brought up his century from 171 balls. He reached the landmark in dramatic fashion, punching Asitha Fernando towards mid off and setting off for a quick single.

Jurel had to dive to make his ground, but once the run was completed, the celebrations began.

After celebrating with Mohammed Siraj, Jurel looked towards the Indian dressing room and flexed his bicep to show the tattoo.

“Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” translates to “Hail the soldiers, hail the farmers.”

Shastri gave the slogan to highlight the importance of India's soldiers and farmers during a difficult period for the country in 1965.

But Jurel's connection to those words is deeply personal.

Why did Dhruv Jurel show his tattoo after his century?

Speaking at the press conference after the day's play, Jurel explained that the tattoo is a tribute to two important people in his family.

“I don’t want to forget my roots; my grandfather is a farmer & Dad was a soldier. That’s why the Tattoo Celebration,” Jurel said.

That explains why the moment meant so much to him.

His grandfather represents the “Kisan”, while his father represents the “Jawan.” By showing the tattoo after reaching his century, Jurel was paying tribute to both while also reminding himself of the roots behind his journey.

It is not the first time Jurel has used a celebration to honour his family either. On previous occasions after reaching milestones for India, he has performed an army salute as a tribute to his father.

This time, after another memorable Test hundred, Jurel found a way to honour both his father and grandfather.