Brian Lara, the philanthropist

On a crisp October evening in 2013, the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy (ACA) ground in Dehradun buzzed with excitement. The air was thick with anticipation as local students, clutching posters and cheering wildly, caught sight of West Indian cricket legend Brian Lara striding onto the field. The charity match, organized by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and ACA, aimed to raise funds for families devastated by the catastrophic Kedarnath floods that had ravaged Uttarakhand on June 16, leaving a trail of loss and despair.

As the sun dipped low, painting the Himalayan foothills golden, Lara gripped his bat, his trademark grin flashing across the pitch. “This is for a cause bigger than cricket,” he said to the crowd, his voice warm yet resolute. “I’ve seen the spirit of Uttarakhand in your cheers today, and I’m honored to play for those who’ve lost so much.” The students erupted, their applause echoing through the stands.

Among them was 15-year-old Priya, a die-hard cricket fan clutching a handmade sign that read, “Lara, you’re our hero!” She turned to her friend Arjun, eyes wide. “Can you believe it? Brian Lara, right here in Dehradun! I wish Dhoni was here too—imagine them both on this pitch!”

Arjun nodded, kicking the dirt. “Yeah, Dhoni’s from Jharkhand, but his wife Sakshi’s from Uttarakhand. Bet he’d have loved to bat for this cause. Still, Lara’s gonna light up this ground!”

The match kicked off, and Lara didn’t disappoint. With every cover drive and lofted shot, the crowd roared louder. Dr. Alok Ahuja, the charismatic president of IMA’s Dehradun branch, watched from the sidelines, his infectious energy palpable. “Getting Brian here wasn’t easy,” he confided to a fellow organizer, chuckling. “I told him, ‘Come on, Brian, these kids need a hero, and Uttarakhand needs hope.’ He was on the next flight!”

Between overs, Lara jogged over to a group of young fans, signing caps and sharing laughs. “You lot play cricket?” he asked, tossing a ball to Priya. She caught it, blushing. “Y-yes, sir! But not like you. That shot was unreal!” Lara winked. “Keep practicing, kid. You’ve got the spirit—Uttarakhand’s got that fire.”

As the game wrapped up, the scoreboard was secondary. The funds raised would go toward rebuilding a small hospital in Guptakashi, a beacon of hope for flood-ravaged families. Dr. Ahuja took the mic, his voice booming. “This isn’t just about cricket. It’s about showing Uttarakhand they’re not alone. Brian, you’ve given us more than runs today—you’ve given us heart.”

Lara, sweat-soaked and smiling, raised his bat to the crowd. “This one’s for you, Dehradun. And for every family rebuilding in Kedarnath. Let’s keep the love going.” The students chanted his name, but Priya whispered to Arjun, “I bet Dhoni’s proud somewhere, too.”

As the stars twinkled over the ACA ground, the night felt like more than a match—it was a promise of healing, stitched together by cricket, charisma, and a community’s unbreakable spirit.

Lara, then 44, not only swung his bat with trademark flair but also rallied support for the cause. “I urge everyone who can to help—these families have lost so much, and any support makes a difference,” he said, pledging to return with fellow West Indian players for future efforts. His visit marked the first time an international cricket star stepped up to aid the state’s recovery.

The students, buzzing with excitement, couldn’t hide their admiration for Lara, though many wished for a touch of local pride. “Playing with Brian Lara is a dream, but having Indian stars here would’ve been amazing,” said Ishan from Abhimanyu Cricket Academy. His friend Kanakpriya added, “If Dhoni had come, it would’ve meant the world. His wife’s from Uttarakhand, so it would’ve felt like one of our own standing with us in this tough time.” Despite the absence, Lara’s presence gave the community a moment of hope and joy amidst their recovery.

The former West Indian international cricket player, Brian Lara, played a charity match here in Dehradun, on Thursday to raise funds for Kedarnath disaster victims. The match, organised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Dehradun-based Abhimanyu Cricket Academy (ACA), was held on the grounds of the Abhimanyu cricket academy.

Brian Lara, the iconic West Indian cricketer, is renowned for his extraordinary batting records and equally for his big heart. Through the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, named in honor of his parents, he channels his passion for giving back by tackling health and social care challenges, making a real difference in people’s lives.

The foundation has been involved in organizing sports events for youth, such as the inaugural Pearl and Bunty Lara Age Group Table Tennis Tournament in 2017, held at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex in Mucurapo (Trinidad Guardian). It also supported boxing events, like the Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle in 2016, to nurture sports in Trinidad and Tobago (Lara opens castle to boxing).

Brian Lara, as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador for Sport, leverages his fame to champion sports and charitable causes with genuine passion. His appearances at events like Soccer Aid in 2008 and 2010 show his heartfelt dedication to making a positive impact beyond the cricket field.

Brian Charles Lara, the legendary Trinidadian cricketer, is celebrated not just for his jaw-dropping batting records—like holding the highest individual scores in Test and first-class cricket—but also for his huge heart. Through the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, named after his beloved parents, Pearl and Bunty, he’s poured his energy into giving back. This piece dives into the heartfelt work he’s doing off the pitch, pulling together insights from various sources to paint a full picture of his charitable impact.

Lara founded the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation to address health and social care issues, reflecting his personal commitment to giving back to society. The foundation, established in memory of his parents, aims to tackle critical areas such as healthcare access and social welfare, particularly in his home country. While specific details of its operational scope are not widely documented online, mentions in biographical sources highlight its focus on these areas

A big part of the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation’s mission is helping young people grow through sports. In 2017, the foundation teamed up with the Trinidad and Tobago Table Tennis Association to launch the first-ever Pearl and Bunty Lara Age Group Table Tennis Tournament. Held over two days at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex in Mucurapo, the event brought together kids and teens in under-10, under-13, under-15, under-18, and under-21 categories, competing in both singles and doubles. It’s a shining example of how Brian Lara uses his love for sports to inspire and uplift the next generation, fostering community and opportunity.

Another notable activity was the foundation’s involvement in amateur boxing. In January 2016, in collaboration with LAY Management Group (LMG) and the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Boxing Association, the foundation hosted “Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle” at Lara’s residence. This series of events, spanning three Tuesdays, featured top boxers preparing for the 2016 Olympics, aiming to provide a supportive environment for athletes and revitalize the sport in Trinidad and Tobago (Lara opens castle to boxing). Lara emphasized the alignment of these efforts with the Olympic Movement’s goals, highlighting his vision for sports as a tool for social impact.

Brian Lara’s big heart shines beyond the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation through his role as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador for Sport. With a diplomatic passport in hand, he travels the world, proudly promoting his country and championing sports initiatives that inspire and uplift. His global fame amplifies the foundation’s mission, using his platform to push for sports development and meaningful causes that make a real difference.

Interviewer: Brian, as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador for Sport, how do you balance your global role with your foundation’s work?

Brian Lara: It’s all about heart, you know? The ambassador role lets me put Trinidad and Tobago on the map, show the world our spirit through sport. It’s a privilege to carry that flag. And with the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, it’s personal—named after my parents, it’s about giving kids a chance to dream big, just like I did. Whether I’m meeting officials abroad or cheering at a local table tennis tournament, it’s all connected—using sport to build hope and community.

Interviewer: What’s it like seeing young athletes at your foundation’s events?

Brian Lara: Oh, man, it’s everything. You see their energy, their smiles, competing at something like our 2017 table tennis tournament—that’s what keeps me going. It’s not just about winning; it’s about giving them a space to grow, to feel supported. That’s what my parents taught me, and I’m just passing it on.

Through the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, named after his parents, Lara’s tackling health and social care challenges in Trinidad and Tobago. It’s all about giving back, especially to kids, using sports to spark confidence and opportunity. In 2017, the foundation teamed up with the Trinidad and Tobago Table Tennis Association for the Pearl and Bunty Lara Age Group Table Tennis Tournament at Jean Pierre Sports Complex in Mucurapo. Kids from under-10 to under-21 competed over two days in singles and doubles, showing how Lara uses sports to lift up the next generation (Trinidad Guardian).

Quick Snapshot of Lara’s Charitable Efforts:

Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation: Tackles health, social care, and youth development through sports.
Table Tennis Tournament (2017): Youth event at Jean Pierre Sports Complex.
Tuesday Night Boxing (2016): Hosted at Lara’s home for amateur boxers.
Soccer Aid (2008, 2010): Charity football for global causes.
Sports Ambassador: Promotes Trinidad and Tobago’s sports and community initiatives worldwide.
Interviewer: Brian, how do you juggle being a Sports Ambassador with your foundation’s work?
Lara: It’s all heart, man. As ambassador, I show the world Trinidad and Tobago’s spirit through sport. The foundation’s personal—named after my parents, it’s about giving kids a chance to dream big. Whether I’m at a global event or a local tournament, it’s all about hope and community.
Young Fan: Boxing at your house sounds awesome! How’d you come up with that?
Lara: laughs It’s about what feels right! My parents taught me to care, and sport was my dream. Turning my backyard into a boxing ring or hosting table tennis gives kids a spark to believe in themselves. That energy? It’s everything.

Brian Lara, the cricketing legend from Trinidad and Tobago, isn’t just a master with the bat—he’s a champion for change off the field. His passion for uplifting communities and inspiring the next generation comes alive through his vibrant charitable work. Here’s a lively rundown of his efforts, packed with heart and purpose:

Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation (Ongoing, Trinidad and Tobago): Named after his beloved parents, Pearl and Bunty, this foundation is Lara’s pride and joy. It’s a powerhouse for tackling health and social care challenges, pouring hope into communities across Trinidad and Tobago. Think of it as Lara’s way of hitting a six for those who need it most, with ongoing initiatives that touch lives every day.
Pearl and Bunty Lara Age Group Table Tennis Tournament (2017, Jean Pierre Sports Complex, Mucurapo): In 2017, Lara’s foundation teamed up with the Trinidad and Tobago Table Tennis Association to launch a thrilling two-day tournament. Young players from under-10 to under-21 battled it out in singles and doubles at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex. It wasn’t just about smashing serves—it was Lara’s way of rallying kids to find confidence, teamwork, and dreams through sport.
Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle (2016, Brian Lara’s Residence, Trinidad): Picture this: Lara’s own home transformed into a boxing ring for a series of electrifying amateur boxing events in 2016. Dubbed “Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle,” these nights were all about giving young fighters a chance to shine, proving Lara’s knack for turning his personal space into a stage for community spirit and grit.
Soccer Aid Participation (2008, 2010, Various International Locations): Lara swapped his cricket bat for football boots in 2008 and 2010, joining the star-studded Soccer Aid charity matches. Playing alongside global icons, he helped raise funds for causes worldwide, showing his heart’s as big as his cover drives. It’s Lara proving he’s a team player for humanity, no matter the sport.
Sports Ambassador Role (Ongoing, International): As Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador for Sport, Lara’s got a diplomatic passport and a mission to make his country proud on the global stage. He’s out there hyping up sports initiatives, waving the flag for Trinidad and Tobago, and using his superstar status to spark inspiration. It’s Lara, the global cheerleader, blending fame with purpose to fuel change.

Dialogue:

Young Fan: Mr. Lara, how do you come up with such cool ways to help people, like boxing at your house or table tennis tournaments?

Brian Lara: laughs It’s all about what feels right, kid! Growing up, my parents showed me how to care for others, and sport was my escape, my dream. Whether it’s turning my backyard into a boxing ring or getting kids to swing a paddle at the Jean Pierre Complex, it’s about giving young people a shot to feel alive, to believe in themselves. Plus, it’s fun seeing the energy they bring!

Young Fan: And playing in Soccer Aid? That must’ve been wild!

Brian Lara: Oh, you have no idea! Running around with football legends for a good cause—nothing beats that vibe. It’s like hitting a century, but for the world. I just want to keep that energy going, whether I’m home in Trinidad or out there as an ambassador, spreading the love for sport and community.

Broader Impact and Legacy

Lara’s charitable work aligns with his broader legacy as a sports icon who uses his platform for social good. His involvement in events like Soccer Aid and his foundation’s focus on youth sports reflect a holistic approach to philanthropy, combining his passion for cricket with community service. This dual role enhances his reputation not only as a cricketing legend but also as a socially responsible figure, inspiring others in the Caribbean and beyond.

Brian Lara, the Trinidadian cricket icon who smashed records with his 400* in Test cricket and 501* in first-class, isn’t just a hero on the pitch. Off the field, he’s been pouring his energy into giving back, mainly through the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, named after his parents. This foundation is his way of tackling health and social care challenges, especially in Trinidad and Tobago, and it’s got a real community vibe.

One cool thing the foundation does is organize sports events to get kids involved and inspired. Back in 2017, they kicked off the Pearl and Bunty Lara Age Group Table Tennis Tournament at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex in Mucurapo. It was a two-day event with young players from under-10 to under-21 competing in singles and doubles. The idea? Use sports to build confidence and keep kids engaged. Lara’s all about that—using his love for sports to make a difference.

He’s also opened up his own home for charity! In 2016, he teamed up with the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Boxing Association for Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle—yep, that’s his place! These events gave local boxers a stage to shine, especially those gunning for the 2016 Olympics. It’s like Lara was saying, “Come on, let’s bring boxing back and give these athletes a boost!”

Beyond the foundation, Lara’s role as a Sports Ambassador for Trinidad and Tobago lets him spread the word about his country and its talent on a global stage. With a diplomatic passport in hand, he’s out there promoting sports and community initiatives wherever he goes. And let’s not forget his stints at Soccer Aid in 2008 and 2010, where he played football for charity alongside celebs and ex-pros, raising funds for good causes. Talk about a team player!

Now, finding every detail about the foundation’s work is a bit tricky since there’s no official website floating around, and some info is scattered across news articles. But from what’s out there, it’s clear Lara’s focus is on health, social care, and empowering young people through sports. His legacy isn’t just those jaw-dropping runs—it’s also the lives he’s touching through his work.

Quick Snapshot of Lara’s Charitable Efforts:

Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation: Focuses on health, social care, and youth through sports.
Table Tennis Tournament (2017): Youth event at Jean Pierre Sports Complex.
Tuesday Night Boxing (2016): Hosted at Lara’s home to support amateur boxers.
Soccer Aid (2008, 2010): Played charity football for global causes.
Sports Ambassador: Promotes Trinidad and Tobago’s sports and community initiatives worldwide.

In wrapping up, Brian Lara’s legacy isn’t just etched in cricket’s record books—it’s alive in the heartbeat of his charitable work. Through the Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation, named after his cherished parents, he’s hitting boundaries for health, social care, and youth empowerment through sports. As Trinidad and Tobago’s Sports Ambassador, he carries his nation’s pride worldwide, while his stints at events like Soccer Aid show he’s game for any cause that uplifts others. Though the internet might not spill all the details of his ongoing efforts as of June 30, 2025, one thing’s clear: Lara’s passion for giving back is a cover drive that keeps soaring, leaving us eager to see what’s next from this cricketing hero with a heart of gold.

Dialogue:

Reporter: Brian, your foundation and ambassador role are making waves. What’s the secret to keeping this momentum going?

Brian Lara: grins No secret, just love for the game and people. The Pearl and Bunty Lara Foundation is my way of honoring my parents’ spirit—helping kids, building communities, making life better. Being an ambassador? That’s just me shouting out Trinidad and Tobago’s vibe to the world! Sure, not every move’s online, but every tournament, every event, it’s all about sparking joy and hope. Stick around—there’s plenty more to come!