The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award stands as the pinnacle of recognition in Indian sports, celebrating athletes who have not only achieved remarkable success but also inspired millions. This year’s recipients include pistol shooter Manu Bhaker, chess prodigy D Gukesh, hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. Each of these athletes has carved a unique place in history, showcasing excellence, determination, and resilience.
Manu Bhaker: Shooting Her Way into History
Manu Bhaker’s rise in the world of shooting is nothing short of extraordinary. At just 22, she achieved a historic feat at the Paris Olympics, winning two medals—bronze in the 10m air pistol individual event and the 10m air pistol mixed team event. This accomplishment made her the only Indian athlete since Independence to secure two medals at a single Olympic Games.
Bhaker’s journey began in Jhajjar, Haryana, where her interest in shooting flourished at a young age. Her discipline and precision earned her international recognition, with numerous medals at World Cups and other global events. Her Olympic success further cemented her legacy as a trailblazer for Indian women in shooting.
The Khel Ratna Award is a testament to her unwavering commitment and exceptional skill. It also highlights her role as a role model for aspiring shooters in India.
D Gukesh: The Youngest World Chess Champion
D Gukesh has redefined excellence in chess. At just 18, he became the youngest world champion, defeating reigning champion Ding Liren in Singapore. His victory at the World Chess Championship came after a stellar performance at the Candidates Tournament earlier in 2024. Gukesh also led the Indian chess team to a historic gold medal at the Budapest Olympiad.
Hailing from Chennai, Gukesh’s chess journey began at an early age, inspired by the rich chess culture in his city. His sharp tactical acumen and ability to handle pressure set him apart. His achievements have revitalized interest in chess across India, cementing his position as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award not only honors his individual brilliance but also recognizes his contribution to elevating Indian chess on the global stage.
Harmanpreet Singh: Leading Indian Hockey to Glory
Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership and skill have been instrumental in the resurgence of Indian hockey. As the captain of the men’s hockey team, he guided the team to its second consecutive bronze medal at the Paris Olympics. His performance, both as a leader and a player, showcased his ability to inspire and deliver under pressure.
Harmanpreet’s journey in hockey began in Amritsar, Punjab, where his talent was nurtured in local clubs. His ability to score crucial goals and defend with resilience earned him recognition on the international stage. Under his captaincy, Indian hockey has regained its stature as a dominant force.
The Khel Ratna Award celebrates his contributions to Indian hockey, honoring his dedication and the impact he has had on the sport.
Praveen Kumar: Defying Odds in Para-Athletics
Praveen Kumar’s achievements in para-athletics are a testament to his indomitable spirit. At the Paris Paralympics, he won gold in the T64 high jump event, a classification for athletes with below-knee amputations who use prosthetics for running. His performance broke records and brought glory to India.
Praveen’s journey has been marked by resilience and hard work. Despite the challenges posed by his physical condition, he pursued athletics with determination, breaking barriers and inspiring others. His Khel Ratna Award recognizes his exceptional talent and the message of hope and perseverance he embodies.
A Celebration of Sporting Excellence
The Khel Ratna Award ceremony on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan will celebrate not just individual achievements but also the spirit of Indian sports. The President of India will honor these athletes for their unparalleled contributions to their respective fields.
Other Honorees
The sports awards also include a distinguished list of athletes and coaches recognized for their contributions:
Arjuna Awardees
- Jyothi Yarraji and Annu Rani (Athletics): Exceptional performances in international athletics events.
- Nitu and Saweety (Boxing): For their victories in boxing championships.
- Vantika Agrawal (Chess): For her remarkable achievements in chess tournaments.
- Salima Tete, Abhishek, and others (Hockey): For their contributions to the Indian hockey team’s success.
- Rakesh Kumar (Para-Archery): For his stellar performances in para-archery.
- Manisha Ramadass and others (Para-Badminton): For showcasing excellence in para-badminton events.
- Swapnil Suresh Kusale and Sarabjot Singh (Shooting): For their achievements in shooting.
Dronacharya Awardees
- Subhash Rana (Para-Shooting) and Deepali Deshpande (Shooting): For their exceptional coaching contributions.
- Sandeep Sangwan (Hockey): For guiding the Indian hockey team to success.
The Legacy of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
Named after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, this award is the highest sporting honor in India. It recognizes athletes who not only excel in their sports but also bring pride to the nation. The award serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging young talents to strive for greatness.
The Importance of Recognition
Recognition through awards like the Khel Ratna plays a pivotal role in motivating athletes. It acknowledges their hard work, sacrifices, and achievements, inspiring the next generation to take up sports as a career.
Indian Sports: A Bright Future
The achievements of athletes like Manu Bhaker, Gukesh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar highlight the growing prominence of Indian sports on the global stage. Their success stories inspire millions and reflect the potential of Indian athletes to excel internationally.
Challenges and the Way Forward
While these successes are commendable, challenges like lack of infrastructure, limited funding, and inadequate training facilities persist. Addressing these issues is crucial for sustaining and enhancing India’s sports performance globally.
Conclusion
The 2025 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees exemplify excellence, determination, and resilience. Their achievements not only bring glory to India but also inspire countless others to pursue their dreams. As the nation celebrates their success, it also looks forward to a future where Indian athletes continue to shine on the global stage.
