Statue to Honor Sachin Tendulkar's Childhood Coach Ramakant Achrekar at Shivaji Park

Sachin Tendulkar Lauds Maharashtra Government's Decision to Honor Late Coach Ramakant Achrekar with Statue

India's batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has expressed his gratitude to the Maharashtra Government for its decision to erect a statue of his childhood coach, the late Ramakant Achrekar, at Mumbai's Shivaji Park.

"Achrekar Sir has had an immeasurable impact on my life and countless others," Tendulkar wrote on social media. "His life was dedicated to cricket at Shivaji Park. Being immortalized there is what he would have desired. I am overjoyed with the government's decision to honor him at his 'karmabhoomi.'"

The announcement was made on Wednesday, coinciding with National Sports Day and the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. The Government of Maharashtra issued a Government Resolution (GR) permitting the installation of the monument near gate No. 5 of Shivaji Park.

The initiative to build a memorial for Achrekar was spearheaded by his former student, Sunil Ramachandran, who played a pivotal role in securing the support of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray.

Achrekar, a recipient of the prestigious Dronacharya award, passed away in 2019 at the age of 87. He mentored 14 players who went on to represent India, including Tendulkar, Vinod Kambli, and Pravin Amre.

The monument will feature a ball, helmet, gloves, and pad, along with Achrekar's name inscribed on it. The bat will bear the signatures of all 14 India cricketers he coached.

"The monument is expected to be completed within the next few months and will be inaugurated by Tendulkar," Ramachandran said.

Tendulkar's heartfelt appreciation for the government's decision highlights the profound impact Achrekar had on his life and career. The statue will serve as a lasting tribute to the legendary coach who played an instrumental role in shaping the destiny of some of India's greatest cricketers.

Tags: #SachinTendulkar, #RamakantAchrekar, #ShivajiPark, #CricketLegend, #ChildhoodCoach