Sachin Tendulkar – Still drawing new fans

Sachin Tendulkar

14th November is already a memorable day, being the birthday of popular leader Chacha Nehru. This is being celebrated as Children’s Day all over India with a great zeal. But henceforth, I honestly believe, this will gradually become the “Sachin farewell day”. Sachin Tendulkar will take a final bow after beginning his last historical match against the touring West Indies on 14^th November.

A friend of mine correctly defined the Sachin fever as incredible. It has taken the entire country into its grip. But a million dollar question comes in the mind of many as to why his retirement is being projected as a very big event?

The answer is simple: during the last 24 years he had become a family member for all the fans in this cricket mad country. The bonding has been so intense that once when he got injured, my very old aunt specifically asked my elder brother about his wellbeing. Imagine, a semi-literate old woman, who knew nothing about the game, showed her concern just because she overheard that a boy called Sachin is doing good for India.

In fact, Sachin’s simplicity, commitment and honesty have impressed one and all, irrespective of age religion, cast and creed. His behavior off and on the field has ben commendable. He was rightfully given the status of a national hero. His down to earth approach and habit of always keeping a low profile had a magical impact which has resulted in a huge fan following. Amitabh Bachchan to Lata Mangeshkar, a street vendor to a business tycoon, a student to a principal, an army man to a General – Sachin became the heart throb of all.

I remember that during a match in Sharjah, the umpire got confused over a decision as to whether the ball had hit Sachin’s bat or pad, but contrary to the usual stand taken by most of the batmen, Sachin walked away voluntarily. The whole world took notice of this and after his competitors became his admirers.

On many occasions, despite being injured, Sachin came out to bat, in a true spirit of a warrior, as team India needed his services. He has never run after individual records and rather always thought of larger interest of team India.

His presence in the field has always had a magical impact on the team India. Not only did he encourage the youngsters, but all recent captains of team India have been taking tips from him. A word of advice from Sachin has given so much encouragement to a number of new bowlers and batsmen.

He has won countless number of awards and rewards, but no one has ever noticed him flaunting in any manner. In today’s era of hype and publicity, Sachin has been silently associated with acts of charity.

His game play has actually generated integration among the people of India. In fact, he has got all the necessary ingredients of a perfect human being. He is such an icon that millions of parents idealize their kids to become like him – with one hundred carat purity.

Even thinking of saying a final goodbye is becoming simply unbearable. So, no wonder that every citizen of this wonderful nation is going to miss this gem – a gem of the game, a gem of a person, and a gem of the nation. We wish that after taking a break, for the sake of his followers, he associates himself with the game as a coach or mentor.

When it comes to say sayonara to the God himself, there is no harm in making an honest confession that perhaps shedding a few tears is acceptable. We all should remember the millions of joyous and thrilling meaningful moments he has given us.

We bow our head in respect to our god!