When it comes to the greatest batsman in cricket, Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly the name that comes to one's mind. Known for his creative batting, Tendulkar changed the game forever.
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While Tendulkar is mostly respected for his gameplay, everyone is quite familiar with his personal life, being married to Anjali, as the couple has a son and a daughter together. Nonetheless, what many don't know is their love story, as we take a look at how it all began.
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Love at first sight: In an interesting scenario, it was in 1990 when Tendulkar had returned from an international tour, where he met Anjali, who was there to receive her mother. Tendulkar reportedly developed an instant liking for her. Later, both also met at a party of their common friend, where the two got to know each other better and it is then things started to move further. “I think what he liked about me was that I knew nothing about cricket when I first met him. I didn't even know who Sachin was," Anjali had once said.
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Dating in disguise: The two reportedly went out once for a movie along with friends. However, since Tendulkar was already popular back then, he disguised himself and entered the theatre late. Nonetheless, during the interval, his disguise fell off, as he was surrounded by fans and had to leave the movie halfway. Anjali also wrote letters to Tendulkar back then while he was on international tours, to save on telephone bills. Also, she had visited his house for the first time disguised as a journalist.
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A bond made in heaven: It was after five years of dating they finally decided to get hitched. Meanwhile, Anjali happened to be five years elder to him. Nonetheless, both have maintained that it was never really a concern for them, as the two have had a great understanding and commitment for each other. “I've not known any other person in my life except Sachin. I understand him so well. So, whether I am his girlfriend or his wife, it's the same thing, just an extension of that bond," she had said.
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For the love of family: Anjali happened to be a paediatrician, as she was practising medicines. However, following her marriage, she decided to quit it all and look after Tendulkar's family. “I could not be married to Sachin and also have a full-time career. It wasn't possible because he depends on me for almost everything. It was my decision. With Sachin not around and me with two kids at home, it wouldn't have been possible. I took a decision and I have never, ever regretted it. I don't eat. I don't answer phones. I don't drink. I don't even move. I don't reply to any SMS until he's out," she had confirmed.
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Anjali- The Saviour: Tendulkar had mentioned in his autobiography, Playing It My Way, that during his tough times, especially when he was unable to deliver as the captain, it was Anjali who stood by her side and helped him out. "I confided in Anjali that I feared there was nothing more that I could do to stem the tide of defeats. Anjali, as usual, managed to put things in perspective and assured me that things would surely get better in the months to come," he once confessed.
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Then, now and forever: It has been 25 years since both have been enjoying their married life, as things don't seem to slow down. The couple have groomed their children well, while both continue to look great together, as they enjoy life on vacations and family dining. “He hasn’t spent Diwali at home since we got married. But, it really doesn’t matter that it’s Diwali… any time he spends at home is great!" Anjali had once said.
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