Maha Legislature congratulates Tendulkar, Rao for Bharat Ratna

In an unprecedented move, Maharashtra legislative Assembly today gave a standing ovation to batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar and noted scientist CNR Rao for being chosen for the highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna.
Both Houses of Maharashtra Legislature today extended greetings to Tendulkar and Rao for the honour.
In Assembly, the Leader of House and Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan moved a resolution to greet both the legends in their respective fields, in the House.
Members cutting across the party lines welcomed the resolution by thumping desks.
"Tendulkar has brought laurels not only to Maharashtra but also for the county by his excellent performance in the world of cricket, and has set a number of records before retiring. The Government of India has aptly picked him up for the coveted Bharat Ratna," Chavan said.

Chavan recalled his association with Rao when the former was MoS in PMO, and also during the assignment of the scientist as the chairman of Scientific Advisory Council to PM.

"Rao had some connection with Kolhapur as his ancestors lived there and he knows Marathi. Besides, he loves Marathi plays," Chavan said.
Opposition Leader Eknath Khadse recalled an exhibition match on the 60th birthday of then chief minister Manohar Joshi when he had the opportunity to open the innings for CM-XI team with Tendulkar against the Indian team.
Subhash Desai (Shiv Sena) also complimented Tendulkar and Rao. "Rao's surname is actually Deshmukh as he has roots in Maharashtra," the MLA said.

Bala Nandgaonkar (MNS) while complimenting the duo, suggested that Tendulkar should be invited to the House during the next Budget session after the Governor's speech and be felicitated.