Sachin Tendulkar Foundation develops 50 school playgrounds, benefiting over 5,000 children
School playgrounds emerge as the first step toward youth development in tribal regions
“Balance sports with studies,” advises Sachin
Multi-sports ground inaugurated by Sachin Tendulkar and Mann Deshi Foundation
Raipur/Dantewada: This is the echo of a transforming Bastar—where the sound of bullets has been replaced by the cheerful rhythm of bat and ball, and volleyball rallies. The silence of once-empty playgrounds is now broken by laughter, applause, and the joy of children at play, painting a powerful picture of development and hope.
This transformation became even more visible when Bharat Ratna awardee and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar visited Chhindnar village in Dantewada on Wednesday. His presence not only uplifted the atmosphere but also gave wings to new aspirations. His interaction with children—playing, smiling, and engaging freely—became one of the strongest symbols of a “changing Bastar.”
Under the joint initiative of the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation and Mann Deshi Foundation, with support from the Government of Chhattisgarh, Swami Atmanand Hindi Medium High School in Chhindnar witnessed a historic moment. Sachin Tendulkar inaugurated a newly developed multi-sports ground and the “Maidaan Cup.” The Tendulkar family was also present at the event.
The Sachin Tendulkar Foundation has developed 50 school playgrounds, creating opportunities for over 5,000 children to nurture their sporting talent.
At the start of the programme, Sachin, Sara, and Sonia Sinha enthusiastically participated in various sports activities with the children, boosting their morale. Events like tug-of-war, volleyball, races, and kho-kho saw energetic participation, fostering teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship among students.
Students from Chhindnar—including Bhoomika Thakur, Niyasa Maurya, Nirmala Tarma, Payal Thakur, Sitaram Punem, and Amit Kumar—also briefed Sachin about the sports activities.
Addressing the gathering, Sachin said, “We have developed 50 grounds here, benefiting over 5,000 children. I feel very happy seeing this, but as we used to say in the Indian cricket team dressing room—‘Let’s double it up.’ So I would like to say the same to everyone—double it up.”
He emphasized the importance of proper guidance and coaching, adding that trained coaches would be sent to Bastar to train 100 local teachers, who in turn would nurture children’s talent. He encouraged children to focus on hard work, discipline, and dedication, stating that there are no shortcuts to success. He also advised them to maintain a balance between sports and academics.
Sachin acknowledged that his wife Anjali played a key role in establishing the foundation, and now his daughter Sara, son Arjun, and daughter-in-law are carrying forward its work. He noted that the lack of playgrounds in Bastar schools motivated him to take this initiative, made possible with support from the administration.
Collector Devesh Kumar Dhruv highlighted that Bastar is rich in natural beauty and talent, and such initiatives can help local children achieve recognition at national and international levels.
At the conclusion, Sachin was felicitated with terracotta and iron craft artworks by the administration and villagers. Winners of various sports competitions were also awarded mementos by him.
Emotional Moment: Early Birthday Celebration
The event turned emotional when children celebrated Sachin’s upcoming birthday by cutting a cake. Touched by the gesture, he thanked the children and said he felt even happier being among them.
“My Journey Began on the Ground”
Sachin shared that his own journey started on a playground, reinforcing how sports shape confidence and positive thinking.
A Dream Come True for Tribal Children
For tribal children, the experience was nothing short of a dream. The icon they had only seen on television and in books was now playing with them. Their smiles, sparkling eyes, and growing confidence reflected the deep impact of the moment.
This initiative is not just promoting sports—it is shaping the future of Bastar’s youth and redefining the region’s identity.
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