On January 17, 2025, Rashtrapati Bhavan hosted the esteemed National Sports Awards ceremony, where President Droupadi Murmu recognized India’s sporting excellence. The event shone a spotlight on four exceptional athletes, each of whom was bestowed with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Manu Bhaker, D. Gukesh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the world of sports, marking a significant moment in India’s sporting history.
The Pinnacle of Achievement: Khel Ratna Award Winners
Manu Bhaker
Manu Bhaker has firmly established herself as a trailblazer in Indian sports, proudly carrying the title of a double Olympic medalist in shooting. Her remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics saw her clinch two bronze medals—one in the women’s individual 10m air pistol and another in the mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh. Although initially overlooked for the prestigious Khel Ratna nominations, Bhaker’s resilience and the overwhelming support from the public helped secure her rightful recognition. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she dedicated the award not only to herself but to every aspiring young shooter in India who dares to dream big.
D. Gukesh
At the remarkable age of 18, D. Gukesh stunned the chess world by securing the title of youngest world chess champion after triumphing over Ding Liren at the FIDE World Championship in December 2024. His exceptional strategic skill and unwavering commitment to the game have solidified his place as a prominent figure in Indian chess, continuing the legacy of greats like Viswanathan Anand. Grateful for the honor of the prestigious Khel Ratna Award, Gukesh sees it as a driving force behind his future ambitions, stating, “This recognition motivates me to push my limits further and bring more glory to my country.”
Harmanpreet Singh
Harmanpreet Singh, the dynamic captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, played a crucial role in guiding his squad to a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, showcasing exceptional leadership both on and off the field. His unwavering commitment has significantly bolstered India’s presence on the global hockey stage. The prestigious Khel Ratna Award stands as a well-deserved recognition of his immense contributions to Indian sports. Reflecting on this achievement, Harmanpreet humbly acknowledged, “This award is a testament to the relentless hard work and dedication of our entire team.”
Praveen Kumar
Para-athlete Praveen Kumar made an indelible mark at the Paris Paralympics, clinching the gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 class. His remarkable victory is a testament to his exceptional talent and the rising recognition of para-sports in India. Kumar’s journey stands as a beacon of inspiration for athletes with disabilities, encouraging them to chase their dreams with unwavering determination. “This award proves that nothing is impossible when you have belief in yourself,” he remarked in his acceptance speech, embodying the spirit of perseverance and self-belief.
