Father, Milkha–nicknamed the "Flying Sikh"–was an Olympic sprinter in the 1960 and 1964 Summer Olympics. Mother, Nirmal Kaur, is the former captain of India's national volleyball team.

Undergoes yoga exercises in mornings before playing.

Was awarded the "Padma Shri," the highest award for a citizen from the Government of India, in 2007.

Received the Asia Pacific Lifetime Achievement Award, along with Colin Montgomerie in December 2012.