'Sachin not only a great sportsman, but a brilliant human being': Manish Tewari

Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari on Saturday congratulated master blaster Sachin Tendulkar for his magnificent contributions to the game of cricket, and said that he is not only a great sportsman, but a brilliant human being as well.

'This match was a very important match for everyone. I am sure the kind of enthusiasm and love he has shown for this game will also show in future. Sachin is not only a great player, but also a brilliant human being," he said.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Jay Panda said: "Sachin Tendulkar is a legend. We should not be sad about it (retirement), but rather, we should think that he has played so beautifully for the last 24 years. I now hope that he will spare more time in Parliament."

Bollywood actor Rahul Bose said that he is paying is best tribute by being at the Wankhede stadium during Tendulkar's farewell game.

"I will miss him all my life. I feel this is my best tribute that I can give him by just being there. I started watching him in Wankhede, and I will keep coming to Wankhede but something will remain missing," he said.

The government has announced that Sachin Tendulkar will be awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contributions to the sport.

The announcement was made through a press note issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

The press note said: "The President of India has been pleased to award the Bharat Ratna to Shri Sachin Tendulkar."

Tendulkar, who retired today after playing his last and 200th Test, becomes the first sportsperson to get the country's highest civilian award.