With President Pratibha Patil approving his nomination to the Rajya Sabha, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar will now play the new role of a parliamentarian. Along with Tendulkar, renowned actor Rekha and businesswoman Anu Aga will also become the member of the Upper House.

“The president has approved the nomination of Sachin Tendulkar, Rekha and Anu Aga to the Rajya Sabha,” said Rashtrapati Bhavan Spokesperson Archana Datta. Under Article 80 of the Constitution, the president can nominate 12 members to the Rajya Sabha and Article 80 of the Constitution provides for nomination of persons having special knowledge or practical experience in matters such as literature, science, art and social service. However, Tendulkar is the first active sportsperson to become a parliamentarian.