Sachin Tendulkar stresses need for a healthy lifestyle

KOZHIKODE: Addressing an ecstatic crowd that cheered for almost every sentence of his speech, Sachin Tendulkar stressed upon the need for leading a healthy and disciplined life. The cricket legend was speaking at the inauguration

Aster MIMS

Centre for Sports Medicine and Advanced Rehabilitation here on Thursday.

“While trying to give your best in sports, you push your limits. Injuries are common for someone pursuing a career in sports. But how you take care of yourselves afterwards is very important. For that you need proper guidance,” he said adding that he was happy over the new sports centre in this part of the country.

Tendulkar, who was all praise for the support received from the region for Kerala Blasters FC team which he co- owns, also put across the message of right eating to remain fit. “My grandmother used to tell me health is your wealth. We never mind having an extra paratha or idli, even if it takes 5 or 10 minutes more. But we never put in extra efforts while working out; one never says let me exercise for five more minutes. If we make minor tweaks in our lifestyle, it will have a major change on our health,” he added.

Tendulkar appreciated the overwhelming support from the crowd and expressed his wish to play an exhibition match in the city. “Last year was a difficult season for the team. But I could still see that the stadium was supporting Kerala Blasters. You (the people) stood with the team,” he added.

He also said he was honoured and excited to share the stage with

Kalaripayattu

exponent Meenakshi Amma who was awarded the Padma Shri recently. “She is a great example of what a fit person can achieve,” he said.

Dr Azad Moopen, chairman and managing director of Aster DM Healthcare said the sports medicine centre would provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary sports medicine facilities that cater to professionals, amateurs and others seeking specialized attention.

MLA A Pradeep Kumar, Kerala Sports Council president T P Dasan, CEO of Aster MIMS Dr Rahul Menon among others were present on the occasion.

Aster MIMS also announced a lifetime sports medicine initiative for six young sportspersons from the state – Anju Jasmin, Uday Prakash, Gayathri Nambiar (badminton), Abhirami VM (athletics), Sachin T K (volleyball) and Jay Shankar (football), who would be sponsored by the centre.