World Cup 2011 and Sachin Tendulkar !!

My so-called blog life is in its infancy and what better way to start it than a post dedicated to one man who more than a billion people revere.

There is a very famous line attributed to Sachin Tendulkar, which can be seen in many a placards in cricket stadiums across the world as shown below.

This line is not merely a reflection of his sporting genius but also his humble personality. I have admired Sachin for a long time. His endurance and dedication on the field speaks volumes for itself. His ability to bring an entire nation to a standstill is something extraordinary. More than his on field skills I adore him for the way he has carried himself off field. In the glitz and gala of the current state of Indian Cricket, he seems almost at peace and away from glamor thereby attesting to his humility. His non-controversial personality and a very gentle nature make him one of the most adored sportsmen in the world. His story from humble beginnings in Mumbai to be one of the highest paid sportsmen in the world is a success story for younger generations to look up to and learn what all can be achieved by a constant pursuit of a dream with dedication and sheer hard work.

Apart from his sporting excellence where his records will stand the test of time, his efforts in social causes off the field are something that is to be appreciated. Be it sponsoring schools and old age homes, or being a brand ambassador of social causes throughout the country, Sachin leverages on his popularity to drive down socially beneficial messages and gives a push to welfare projects. These qualities combined with an affable personality make him the most powerful and the most trusted brand in the Indian subcontinent.

Despite a near invincible personality, what I fail to understand is the way critics find a way to blame him for his inability to finish matches resulting in India’s victory despite having put his best effort on the field. People fail to realize that cricket as a game is a team sport and one man alone cannot win the game for his country. Sachin has successfully shepherded India’s cricketing journey for the better part of twenty years and the least we can do as ardent fans is to ensure he gets all the support he can get.

Ask anyone who grew up in the 1990’s and 2000’s, and one will hear a unanimous opinion stating that Sachin has been an integral part of their lives. Many a tear will be shed the day he announces his retirement.

There is no better feeling than to hear “SACHINNNNNN SACHINNNNN” reverberate the cricket grounds when he walks out to bat.

It is not a mere calling of his name. It is a nation’s love raucously expressed in two words.

PS: I strongly believe India is destined to win the World Cup :)

Sharat Ganesh