Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, and Two Others Honored with Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
The Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s most prestigious sports honor, has been awarded to four exceptional athletes this year. The Sports Ministry has announced that shooter Manu Bhaker, chess prodigy D Gukesh, hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh, and Paralympic high jumper Praveen Kumar are the recipients of this coveted accolade. These athletes have demonstrated extraordinary talent, perseverance, and dedication in their respective fields, earning them this prestigious recognition.
Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medalist, has made history with her remarkable achievements in shooting. She secured two medals at the same Olympic Games, one in the 10m air pistol individual event and the other in the 10m air pistol mixed team category. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including reports suggesting her initial omission from the nomination list, Manu has remained steadfast in her dedication to her sport. Addressing the controversy, Manu expressed that awards motivate her but are not the ultimate goal of her career. She clarified that there might have been an oversight in her nomination process but reaffirmed her commitment to winning more medals for India.
D Gukesh, an 18-year-old chess sensation, has achieved remarkable milestones in the chess world. He became the youngest World Chess Champion, showcasing exceptional skills and strategic brilliance. His leadership also helped the Indian team clinch a historic gold medal at the Chess Olympiad. Gukesh’s achievements highlight his immense potential and promise in the global chess arena.
Harmanpreet Singh, the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, has been instrumental in leading the team to consecutive bronze medals at the Olympics. His leadership and consistent performance have significantly contributed to India’s resurgence in international hockey. Harmanpreet’s ability to inspire his team and maintain high standards of play has earned him widespread admiration.
Praveen Kumar, the fourth awardee, is a para-athlete who has made India proud on the international stage. He clinched the gold medal in the T64 high jump category at the Paris Paralympics. This classification is for athletes who use prosthetics due to below-the-knee amputations. Praveen’s triumph underscores his resilience, determination, and dedication to excellence despite challenges.
The Sports Ministry has also announced that 32 athletes, including 17 para-athletes, will receive the Arjuna Award this year for their outstanding contributions to sports. The awardees will be honored by the President of India in a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025.
The journey of these athletes reflects the indomitable spirit of Indian sports and the immense potential the country holds in various disciplines. Their achievements inspire countless others to dream big and pursue excellence. The recognition through the Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award not only celebrates their accomplishments but also underscores the importance of nurturing and supporting talent across all sporting arenas.
As India continues to shine on global platforms, these athletes stand as beacons of hope and inspiration, proving that dedication and hard work can overcome any obstacle. Their stories remind us of the transformative power of sports in bringing individuals and nations closer to achieving greatness.