Sachin's 200th Test: Cancer foundation to help 200 children

Sachin Tendulkar has made millions happy with his exploits on the field, but off it too he has made a difference to lives of many through his various charities.

Two years ago, while steering India to the World Cup triumph in 2011, the batting icon, with his wife Anjali and Dr. P Jagannath, raised a corpus fund of 1.35 crore for a crusade against cancer in children. It has helped more than 300 kids in their treatment and recovery against the dreaded disease.

As Tendulkar bids cricket good bye after his ongoing farewell 200th Test in Mumbai, Dr Jagannath, who is also chairman of the Oncology department at Lilavati hospital in Mumbai, saluted the feat by himself committing to help 200 children who desperately need assistance in their battle against cancer.

In a free-wheeling chat with Harish Kotian, Dr Jagannath talks about how Tendulkar has always been at the forefront when it comes to raising funds to help the needy.

“I am not a diehard fan of cricket, but enjoy the game and share the incredible enthusiasm of my countrymen. I watch cricket for Sachin’s batting, as I enjoy his sheer perfection and class.

I have the good fortune of knowing him personally and recount his conduct that makes him truly exceptional off the field.

Dr. Anjali and Sachin wholeheartedly agreed to support ‘Crusade Against Cancer Foundation’ and raise money for children with cancer, who cannot afford expensive treatment. When CACF organized a charity dinner in 2010, I was surprised when Sachin phoned up saying that he is starting from Bandra by 7 pm to reach BKC that would normally take just around 10 minutes.

‘Too early, Sachin,’ I said, as only few guests had come. He said he would rather come before anyone else and did not want any guest to wait for him. We had to quickly arrange a room for him at the venue to wait till most guests arrived.

Throughout the event, I could see that he was truly touched and moved by the stories of little children and their fight against cancer. His voice was choked and he made it a point to wish each child the very best.

What impressed me most was his absolutely grounded, humble demeanour. He said his dinner can wait and went to each of the tables and thanked the guests profusely for their contribution. He was patient and did not get irritated when people shoved photographs and bats for his autograph. He told me not to get hassled and spent all the time to make sure that all the donors were satisfied. Finally, had his simple meal of fish curry at 11 pm and bid good bye.

Everyone who knows Sachin vouches for his simplicity in spite of his phenomenal achievement. He is not just a cricketer, but a role model for any celebrity.

In a nation starved for icons to look up to, Sachin stands as a ‘beacon’ for bringing glory to the country, for remaining true to the game and above all being a great human being.

How does one salute such an achievement?

We wish to salute Sachin’s 200th Test by committing to help 200 children who desperately need assistance.  I am sure their blessings will ensure happiness and success for him.

He is not just a cricketer, but a grounded and caring person.

Thank you Anjali and Sachin!