My favourite Sachin Tendulkar: The Icon of Icons

What is the first thing that strikes you when you think of Sachin Tendulkar? Let me give the answer, “It’s reliability.” When Tendulkar is around, there’s an assurance that things will be fine. And we are not just talking about his deeds with the cricket bat on the field. At the time of the Greg Chappell-Sourav Ganguly controversy, somebody had pointed out that had Tendulkar been around (he was out of the team due to injuries for sometime), he could have sorted it out. There’s a weight, which he carries and even the presence of much younger names like MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh have not spoiled his popularity at the age of 36.

He is cricket’s biggest youth icon with due respect to Dhoni. He is an example of what a combination of talent and hard work can do to you. An opinion poll posted by IndiaStudyChannel.com revealed that the Master Blaster is still the favourite with the youth ahead of Rahul Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, Shah Rukh Khan and others. Need we have to say anything more?

Now the automatic question is: Why is Tendulkar an icon? When we talk of an icon we also take into consideration his contribution to the society as a human being and responsible citizen. But Tendulkar is one person who has never flaunted his charitable side. He doesn’t want to make headlines for that. Many wouldn’t know that he is associated with the Mumbai-based Apnalaya and takes care of the education of 200 children every year. This is one side of Tendulkar. People who know him closely have admired him as a legend who is down-to-earth and is aware of his middle-class background. Non-controversial and game for any help, Tendulkar is a true role model. His face still sells and endorsers know the value of this little man who stands apart. Sanjana Gupta, a call center employee says, “Even years after his retirement, he will remain my icon. He has shown what it takes to be at the top for so many decades.” Her friend Riya adds, “He is such a doting father and caring husband. Never has he slipped despite provocations.” That’s one of the reasons why he is held in such high esteem. An icon has to have characters that set an example and Tendulkar fits the bill perfectly.

Over the years he has not only given stability to Indian batting, but has himself faced all criticism with élan and never ever buckled under pressure. His bat does the job for him. For somebody who made his international debut at the age of 16, Tendulkar has never ever got carried away by stardom. On the contrary, he has taken both success and failure in his stride and aspired for higher goals.

His affable nature has won him more fans. The word arrogance has never ever existed in his dictionary. Success doesn’t get into his head and this is the reason why he still remains the best batsman in the world. An icon who will never fade.

Source: http://www.dayafterindia.com/aug109/sports2.html