Kumar Bahukhandi
During Sachin Tendulkar’s visit to Chhattisgarh, a picture of hope and enthusiasm emerged in the Naxal-affected region of Bastar. While playing with children in Chhindnar village in Dantewada, he remarked that Bastar is home to thousands of “diamonds” that need to be polished.
Chhindnar-Dantewada ( Chhattisgarh ): Sachin announced his support for the construction of over 100 sports grounds and emphasised the importance of both sports and education.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Visit to Chhattisgarh: On Wednesday April 22 , 2026 a profoundly positive picture of hope, enthusiasm, and transformation unfolded in Bastar—a region in Chhattisgarh that has historically been affected by Naxalite activity.
When Sachin Tendulkar, the ‘God of Cricket,’ arrived at Chhindnar village in Dantewada, the atmosphere instantly transformed into that of a grand festival. Playing and smiling amidst the children, and encouraging them to strive for success, Sachin delivered a clear message: the land of Bastar is brimming with talent; all it requires is the right guidance and opportunities.
‘Sachin-Sachin’ Chants Echo Along the Indravati
As soon as Sachin Tendulkar arrived with his family at Chhindnar—a small village nestled on the banks of the Indravati River—the entire sports ground erupted with applause and chants of “Sachin! Sachin!” The children appeared overjoyed to see their idol right there in their midst. Every face glowed with happiness and pride.
Presence of Family and Foundation Boosts Enthusiasm
Present on this special occasion were Sachin’s daughter, Sara Tendulkar; his daughter-in-law, Sania Tendulkar; and Chetna Sinha, the founder of the Mann Deshi Foundation. The atmosphere of the event was completely infused with the spirit of sportsmanship, energy, and positive thinking.
Sportsmanship on Display in Tug-of-War and Volleyball
Prior to the formal proceedings, Sachin spent quality time interacting freely with the children.
He personally participated in a game of tug-of-war. While Sachin anchored one team, Sara and Sania were seen on the opposing side. Sara’s team emerged victorious in this friendly contest, prompting another round of resounding applause across the ground. Subsequently, Sachin was seen playing volleyball with the children, relishing every single moment.
Inspection of the Sports Ground and Honoring Contributors
Sachin toured the entire sports ground and felicitated those individuals who had played a pivotal role in its construction. It was announced that, to date, 25 sports grounds have been completed across the Dantewada district, with work currently underway on another 25 new grounds.
Pledge to Support Over 100 Sports Grounds
Speaking from the podium, Sachin Tendulkar made a major announcement. He declared that he would extend his support not merely for the construction of 50 sports grounds, but for the development of over 100 such facilities. He said, “I am delighted to be here. When I learned that the players possessed talent but lacked a playing field, it reminded me of my own childhood.
My journey in life, too, began on the playing field.”
Efforts to Nurture Talent Continue
Sachin heaped praise on the work being done by the Mann Deshi Foundation and the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation. He noted that, working in tandem, the two organisations are making a robust effort to hone the sporting talent of the children in this region.
“Proper guidance and coaching are absolutely essential, and that is precisely what is being provided here,” he remarked.
Emphasising the Role of Teachers
Sachin stated that teachers, too, would be trained in a manner that enables them to effectively teach children the nuances of sports. He added, “Bastar is home to many ‘diamonds’—they simply need to be polished. It is crucial to channel the immense energy possessed by these children in the right direction.”
Lessons on Friendship and Life for Children
While interacting with the children, Sachin emphasised the importance of giving equal weight to both academics and sports. Explaining the essence of friendship, he remarked, “A true friend should be like two things: a mirror and a shadow. A mirror never lies, and a shadow never leaves your side.”
A Father’s Wisdom Transforms His Outlook
Recalling his childhood, Sachin shared a valuable lesson taught by his father. He said, “My father told me that a cricket career is finite; however, once it concludes, you should conduct yourself in such a way that people remember you as a good human being. Guided by that very philosophy, I strive to do something positive every single day.”
A New Direction for Bastar’s Future
The event held in Chhindnar was not merely a function; it served as a powerful message, inspiring the children of Bastar to dream big and empowering them with the courage to turn those dreams into reality.
Sachin Tendulkar’s presence further reinforced the conviction that Bastar’s identity would no longer be defined solely by struggle, but would henceforth be synonymous with talent and success.
