Puttaparthi (Andhra Pradesh), Nov 19 (NationPress) The iconic cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared on Wednesday that the blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba empowered him with the inner strength necessary to excel during the 2011 World Cup.

He expressed that Baba’s blessings provided him with the assurance needed to confront challenges while on the field.

Tendulkar noted that it was from Sathya Sai Baba that he learned that true success is not about amassing wealth, but rather about making a meaningful contribution to those less fortunate.

While addressing the birth centenary celebrations of Sathya Sai Baba, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Bharat Ratna awardee recounted how Baba’s gift of a book during the World Cup training camp instilled confidence and inner strength in him.

“I recall 2011. After participating in multiple World Cups, I sensed this would be my final one. There were immense expectations, and emotions were heightened. While at a camp in Bengaluru, I received a call informing me that Baba had sent his book. It brought joy to my heart. I realized this World Cup was destined to be special for us. It instilled confidence and that inner strength, making me feel agile as an athlete during the camp,” he reflected.

The celebrated batsman shared that Baba’s book became an essential part of his journey. “We all know how events unfolded in 2011 when India faced Sri Lanka in Mumbai and ultimately lifted the trophy. The entire nation rejoiced,” he shared.

Tendulkar described it as the pinnacle moment of his cricket career. “I don’t believe I have ever experienced anything like that in my career where the whole nation united in celebration, made possible by the blessings of our supporters, mentors, and primarily, Baba’s blessings,” he remarked.

“It provided me with inner strength to strive for my best and reassured me to confront the challenges on the field fearlessly because Baba is always with you,” he added.

The former Indian captain expressed gratitude for his participation in the centenary celebrations, deeming it a significant honor.

Referring to Puttaparthi, he said this location has provided “immense comfort, purpose, and direction to millions.”

“I am reminded of the countless ways Baba has enriched our lives, helping us become better individuals,” he commented.

Tendulkar also reminisced about being referred to as a small child whose hair resembled Sathya Sai Baba’s when he was five. “It was simply because I hadn’t gotten a haircut until the age of five, and my hair was long like his. I was too young to comprehend the significance of Baba’s contributions to humanity,” he added.

The former cricketer recounted his initial meeting with Sathya Sai Baba in the mid-1990s. “It happened in Whitefield, and I was privileged to meet him multiple times thereafter,” he shared.

He reflected on a memorable encounter with Baba at Puttaparthi in 1997, stating that Baba possessed the extraordinary ability to connect with you mentally wherever you were. “I had many questions in mind, contemplating whether to ask them and if it was appropriate. Without me uttering a word, Baba answered those questions. It was an incredible experience for me to realize how he understood my thoughts. He blessed me and provided direction,” he shared.

Tendulkar mentioned valuable lessons learned from Baba, who always advised, “Don’t judge; rather, understand and accept people as they are and adapt accordingly. Understanding leads to acceptance, acceptance fosters adaptability, and adaptation resolves conflicts even before they manifest.”

“He exemplified this through numerous instances. It was never a directive; he practiced what he preached. He genuinely believed in helping, healing, and uplifting others. It was part of his essence to contribute and to bless individuals with better mental well-being. While we often focus solely on physical health, mental health is equally vital,” he concluded.