Celebrities who were born today

These two people have been ruling Bengal politics and sports for over a decade. The fact that both of them are Bengalis is not just one point in common, but also the rich background and history they share.

Celebrating the birthdays of late politician Jyoti Basu and cricketer Saurav Ganguly.

Jyoti Basu: Jyotirindra Basu was known for his acumen and knowledge in politics. He represented the CP(I)M and also served as the chief minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000, turning him to be the longest serving chief minister in any state's history.

Born on 8th July 1914, Jyoti Basu completed his education from the renowned Loreto School at Dharamtala in 1920 and St Xavier's school in 1925. He completed his under-graduation from Presidency College, then under the University of Calcutta.

He was then sent to London and studied at the London School of Economics. Following which, he did law. He qualified as a Barrister in Middle Temple. He got in terms to Indian politics here. He died on Jan 17, 2010.

Saurav Ganguly: Born in 1972, Saurav Ganguly needs no introduction. Dada, as he is known affectionately, he was introduced to the world of cricket by his brother Snehashish. Considered to be one of India's most successful captains in modern times, Saurav was subject to politics in cricket when he was dropped from the team several times, pertaining his arguments with the then Indian coach-Greg Chappell.

He is the third person in history to cross the 10,000 mark after Sachin Tendulkar and Inzamam Ul Haq. Having taken an early reirement from International cricket, he is now the joint Secretary of Cricket Association of Bengal and President of the Editorial Board with Wisden India.

He was awarded with India's highest civlian award-the Padma Shri in 2004