Sachin Tendulkar has always been rather shy in discussing his personal life. This might be the reason why a lot of us are unaware of his romantic love story with wife, Anjali. For Sachin and Anjali, it was love at first sight. The two of them first met at the Mumbai International Airport. Sachin was returning from his first International cricket tour in 1990 while Anjali was at the airport to receive her mother. They both took an instant liking to each other the first time they met. Later, the two met at a common friend’s place and got to know each other better.

When Sachin Tendulkar and Anjali first met, Anjali was practicing medicine while Sachin had also just begun his cricketing career. Anjali being a dedicated student was much involved in studies and was very less interested in cricket. Her knowledge about sports and particularly cricket was faint. Later, when they started dating, Anjali made all efforts to brush up her knowledge about the sport.

Anjali Tendulkar- “I think what he liked about me was that I knew nothing about cricket when I first met him. I didn't even know who Sachin was.”

Being as famous that he was right from the beginning of his career, Sachin Tendulkar could get very few instances to go out on uninterrupted dates with Anjali. While giving an interview to a local magazine, Anjali recalls an incident where the two of them had gone to see the movie Roja along with a few common friends. They were afraid that if people would recognise the ace cricketer, they would not be able to enjoy their day. So to avoid all the attention, Sachin went to the movie in a disguise, wearing a false beard and specs. They entered the movie theatre a little late but during the interval of the film, his specs fell and the cricketer got surrounded by his fans. Due to all this they had to leave the movie halfway.

Anjali Tendulkar- “I've not known any other person in my life except Sachin. I understand him so well. So whether I am his girlfriend or his wife, it's the same thing, just an extension of that bond."

Anjali, daughter of the well known industrialist Ashok Mehta got married to Sachin Tendulkar in 1995 after a five year long period of dating each other. They have been happily married to each other for the last 18 years. Anjali Tendulkar is 6 years older than Sachin Tendulkar. But the couple maintains that this age gap has never been a matter of concern in their relationship and instead has made them  more committed and understanding of each other.

Sachin Tendulkar- "Anjali actually taught me to thank for what the God has given me and for what the God has not given me.”

Anjali Tendulkar left her career of being a successful pediatrician to have a happy married life. She maintains that it would have been difficult for her to maintain both at a time. The couple has two children, Sara Tendulkar and Arjun Tendulkar. She also says that she has no regrets whatsoever of leaving her profession as taking care of her husband and children gives her the greatest joy.

Anjali Tendulkar- “I could not be married to Sachin and also have a full-time career. It wasn't possible because he depends on me for almost everything. It was my decision. With Sachin not around and me with two kids at home, it wouldn't have been possible. I took a decision and I have never, ever regretted it."

The love story of Sachin and Anjali Tendulkar sure is inspiring to lot of young couples. They set an example of a strong and committed marriage. Being the lovable and down to earth person Sachin is, this cricket crazy nation of India wishes the couple their best, always!

Note: Story source and quotes are taken from Anjali and Sachin's interviews published on various websites and magazines.