I don’t recall how and why I became a Sachin Tendulkar fan. But growing up, Sachin Tendulkar became synonymous with God for me. I had numerous scrapbooks, newspaper cuttings, and Boomer cards; everything was about the Master. But, I had obviously never imagined that I would be writing in a book dedicated to him.
I had Sachin’s poster on my cupboard, and I would go to that poster for all sorts of help; I would pray in front of the poster even before my school exams. That’s how much he means to me.
In 1996, I was on a train from Berhampore to Kolkata. At that time, Sachin was the team captain, which didn’t go well with many people. I was just six years old and sitting with Sachin cards in my hand. Then, two men started criticising Sachin. I was tiny back then but left no stone unturned in standing up for my God. I screamed, I shouted, and I told them off eventually.
Vighnesh Shahane on Sachin Tendulkar
On 31 May 1998, I met Sachin Tendulkar for the first time. It was the final of the triangular series between India, Kenya and Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens. Kenya won the toss and elected to bat first. They were bowled out for 196. While Kenya was batting, Tendulkar came and stood at the long-on boundary. I couldn’t believe he was just a few feet away from me. I ran towards the nets like all the other spectators. He was so kind and humble and greeted everyone between balls. I kept screaming, but I was just a kid and thought my voice would never reach him. But to my astonishment, it did, and he turned, smiled and waved. That’s it! My day, my match, everything was made. I was ecstatic for the rest of the game and the rest of the month. If only we had cameras back then.
I met him virtually a couple of times after the pandemic for interviews; I was at Eden Gardens (crying my heart out) for his penultimate test. But I can never forget 1998.
Each time I have been in awe of his humility. Sachin Tendulkar is not my God for the 100 hundreds or any other cricketing achievements; he is my God because he taught me the meaning of following one’s dream. He taught me the importance of grit, passion, perseverance and hard work.
Suresh Raina on Sachin Tendulkar
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