(Image source from: Sachin Tendulkar to receive Bharat Ratna})

Amidst much debate, discussion and speculation, the Prime Minister's Office has announced to felicitate India's greatest cricketer – Sachin Tendulkar — with a Bharat Ratna. A truly befitting honor for the God of Cricket! With this, Tendulkar will become the first sportsperson in Indian history to receive the top honor.

The legendary Indian cricketer, who walked into the golden sunset of his career today at Wankhede dedicates this award to his mother.

"I dedicate this to my mother," Tendulkar said.

Tendulkar will be the seventh Maharashtrian to win the Bharat Ratna after Dhondo Karve, Pandurang Kane, Vinoba Bhave, BR Ambedkar, Lata Mangeshkar and Bhimsen Joshi.

The decision comes after several renowned personalities voiced their support, naming Sachin as a worthy contender for India's highest civilian award.

Lata Mangeshkar was the latest to vouch for Tendulkar. "Whatever he (Sachin) has done for the country, very few people can. He deserves the honour. He has made all of us proud," Lata had told television channels on Friday. She herself had received the honour in 2001.

Tendulkar is the most successful batsman in international cricket with 15,921 runs in 200 Testsand an overall 18,426 runs in 463 matches to his name.

AW: Suchorita Dutta Choudhury