Sachin Tendulkar was a picture of humility as he celebrated his 40th birthday with a brief cake-cutting ceremony here, thanking his legions of fans for their "unconditional love" in a cricket career spanning over two decades.


The Mumbaikar, who would be seen in action during an IPL match for his team Mumbai Indians against the Kolkata Knight Riders later tonight, made a brief statement to the media before cutting a cake in Kolkata.


"Let me take this opportunity to thank all the people in India and well wishers all over the world who have supported me and showered me with unconditional love," said the veteran, whose wife Anjali was by his side during the ceremony. "It has been really special and it is because of their good wishes that I am standing here," he added.


Tendulkar said he wanted to thank each one of his fan personally for supporting him for over 24 years. "Since I can't do that, it is a good opportunity to thank the every little thing that they have done for me, like fasting for me during injuries. I just wanted to say thank you," he said.


Tendulkar got the first bite of his birthday cake from Anjali's hands who giggled after being called from the backstage by the batsman on the insistence of the present journalists and photographers. "Now, don't ask her to put it on my face next," joked the veteran cricketer.