Sachin Tendulkar: A New Innings in Democracy's Play

One of India's most cherished cricket legends, Sachin Tendulkar, has always been celebrated for his on-field prowess. His exemplary career spanning over two decades has won hearts globally, earning him titles such as 'Master Blaster' and 'God of Cricket'. As his cricketing journey came to a halt, Tendulkar continued to inspire off-field, working on myriad social causes and engaging with the youth. Yet, on August 23, 2023, he embarked on a unique journey, embracing the title of the 'National Icon' for voter awareness and education for the Election Commission of India (ECI).

At an event held in Akashvani Rang Bhavan, New Delhi, an MoU marking Tendulkar's association with ECI for three years was formalized. This collaboration is not just a feather in the cap for Tendulkar but a significant milestone for the Election Commission too. With the General Elections of 2024 on the horizon, the ECI is leaving no stone unturned to ensure robust voter participation. Associating with Tendulkar is a strategic move aimed at leveraging his magnetic pull among the youth to boost electoral participation, particularly among urban locales.

In his characteristic spirit, Tendulkar articulated the importance of voting in a democratic setup like India's. Drawing parallels between the electrifying atmosphere of a cricket match and the energy during elections, he emphasized the role of the youth in taking the nation forward. He remarked, "From filling up stadiums to queueing up at polling booths, our collective spirit as Indians remains unwavering. Each vote is a step toward a brighter future for our country."

Chief Election Commissioner, Shri Rajiv Kumar, was effusive in his praise for Tendulkar. Highlighting the cricketer's commitment to excellence and success, Kumar pointed out that Tendulkar's vast influence, which goes beyond cricket, makes him a perfect fit to champion the cause of voting.

This association promises a range of activities. From television appearances to digital campaigns, Tendulkar will be at the forefront, educating and informing citizens about the significance of casting their votes. This initiative by the ECI is not new. Previously, icons like M.S. Dhoni, Aamir Khan, Mary Kom, and most recently Pankaj Tripathi, have shouldered the responsibility to amplify the message of democratic participation.

As Sachin Tendulkar begins this special innings, one can only hope that his association with the ECI resonates with the masses. After all, every vote, much like every run in cricket, counts in shaping the destiny of our nation.
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Tanveer Alam




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