Mumbai, Apr 24 (IANS): The Indian Premier League (IPL) controversy took a backseat as cricketers and cricket lovers got together to wish master blaster Sachin Tendulkar on his 37th birthday here Saturday.

Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan said: "The entire nation and cricket lovers across the world are proud to see him setting new records in all formats of cricket."

"As a great admirer of your style and sense of commitment to the nation, I join the millions of your fans in wishing you a very special birthday," he said in a message.

"While congratulating you, I hope you will continue to set newer records in the years to come," Sankaranarayanan said.

Cricketer Harbhajan Singh said the maestro was "not 37 years old, but 37 years young as he continues to play with the zeal of an enthusiastic youngster even today".

Harbhajan said he always felt very close to Sachin and looked up to him for advice in his good and bad times. "In fact I think I have reached this stage in life only because of his support," he added.

In a special front-page article on the occasion, Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamna paid tribute to the master blaster on his birthday and wished him many more records in the future.

People from all walks of life - from commoners to film personalities and other celebrities - rallied together in wishing Sachin on the occasion.