As he stands in the Adidas mega store at Linking Road, Khar, in Mumbai, listening to owner Kukreja boasting about the what could easily be among the most expensive real estate in the world, Sachin Tendulkar is surrounded on all sides by big posters of him in various poses, all except the one that makes him what he is: slamming the ball into the skies. As he looks around the store at the casuals in clothes and footwear there is no feeling of want. He's had it all and at a very early age.
So what sort of lifestyle would the young man have now? "It is very simple. I don't go out much. Only if I have any prior commitments. Otherwise, cricket and family life," he says. The outings he talks of are mostly culinary. "I go out maybe to the Chinese food joint at The Leela, another Chinese one at the Taj, the Golden Dragon and Mexican and Thai food places at Hotel President." But he is quick to add that the food he relishes most is that cooked at home by "my mother."
His dress code is mostly casual. "I prefer to be in jeans and T-shirt. Most of the times you will see me in jeans, unless at functions when I dress formal." Unlike most kids Sachin Tendulkar had no hobbies. There was little time left between running from maidan to maidan playing one match after another and clobbering one bowler after another.
What he does have is a collection of CDs. A thousand? "No, I've lost track. It's true I enjoy music. If I like some stuff, I buy it." He is becoming a collector of cars no less. "It's no hobby but I love fast cars." He is loath to mention his favourite five. "It doesn't matter which. I generally like fast cars."
What does he shop? "Certainly not cars. You don't get too many good cars. I shop for good casual wear. I am still too young to go for formals. I may also shop for sunglasses, but these are absolutely the ones that anyone of my age would wear. "
Does he have a collection of footwear? "Yes, I love to buy boots. When training I wear keds otherwise I love to be in boots." Must be a problem finding them, the right ones for the greatest little big man in contemporary sport.