Sachin Tendulkar – it was a farewell befitting the legendary status of the man. On Monday, November 18, 2013, evening, the who’s who of Bollywood and cricket gathered together, to bid the “God of Cricket” Sachin Tendulkar adieu.
Making a smashing entry alongside his “partner for life”, wife Anjali, Sachin Tendulkar was greeted to tumultuous applause and deafening cheers, as he deserves to be. The humble Maharashtrian boy whom went on to create history was seen in a simple black suit.
Sachin alluded to many personalities to whom he owes his cricketing career, and many of them were present at the farewell party. Sachin’s longtime coach and guru Ramakant Achrekar made a rare appearance, as did Sachin’s brother himself, Ajit Tendulkar.
The filmy frat naturally was there, to support Sachin and wish him the very best for his future endeavours. Bollywood Shehenshah Amitabh Bachchan, a self-confessed Sachin fan, was punctual as always, as was Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan. Also seen was Farhan Akhtar, who played a sportsmen in his most recent film, with his wife Adhuna Akhtar. Legendary singer Asha Bhosle too attended the party.
From the cricketing world, Sachin Tendulkar’s teammates Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Azharuddin, and others were spotted. Cricket greats like Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar too came to celebrate the legend. BCCI chief Sharad Pawar and politician Raj Thackeray were seen.
Naturally, the entire country is partially in mourning, post Sachin’s retirement. People across all ages and social strata were moved to tears by Sachin Tendulkar’s humble, poignant, straight-from-the-heart speech.
Bollywood’s most articulate superstar, Mr. Amitabh Bachchan perhaps summed up what we felt the best: T 1296 – FB 401 -Bharat Ratna for Sachin Tendulkar !! India breathed comfortably for the past 24 years, as he stepped out to play for the country. Sachin defined cricket .. and cricket got its credence through him ! I am proud and blessed to be a citizen of the country Sachin strode on ! History shall change its chapters with time .. but time and history shall never be able to change what Sachin meant to us all !!
Amen.
