Mumbai: Facing the camera for his soon-to-be-released biopic
has been more challenging than standing up to the fastest bowlers in the
world and scoring runs, said cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai
on Thursday.
"For so many years, I did whatever I wanted to do and
the camera captured that. Suddenly I was asked to do particular things
and then the camera captured that, so it was a bit different for me.
Believe me, the first option was better," said Tendulkar at a function
in Mumbai, where he was announced as the face of the inaugural IDBI
Federal Life Insurance Mumbai Half Marathon, scheduled to be held on
August 21.
Sachin Tendulkar. PTI
"Acting
is not something that I dreamt of. Without any doubt, acting was more
challenging than playing cricket. I enjoyed playing more," added
Tendulkar, who played 200 Test matches before retiring in November,
2013.
Tendulkar, 42, is making his acting debut with the biopic,
'Sachin: A Billion Dreams', which has been directed by award-winning
British director James Erskine.
The former India skipper, who was
also announced as the face of other half marathons -- Delhi and Kolkata
-- by the life insurance firm, hailed the long distance runners, some of
whom were present on the occasion.
"I would like to congratulate
you all. I fully understand the sacrifices you make. In marathon every
second matters. It comes once a while for which you prepare yourself,
control your diet, push each other in a healthy competition. Healthy
competition brings out the best results.
"If you lead a healthy
lifestyle overall the result is better. You are able to achieve your
target whether you are a doctor, engineer or sportsman. My grandmother
used to say health is your real wealth, so look after your health. By
running if you can keep yourself fit, then why not (run)."
He also recalled his younger days when his coach Ramakant Achrekar made him train and play from morning till dus