India’s two-time Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and chess prodigy D Gukesh are among the four individuals chosen to receive the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honor in the country. The Ministry of Sports confirmed the decision on Thursday, following a week of confusion regarding Bhaker’s nomination. The controversy arose when it was revealed that Bhaker’s nomination might have been initially overlooked. However, the shooter later admitted to a potential oversight in her submission, acknowledging a possible lapse on her part. She assured the public that the issue was being addressed and emphasized that, regardless of the award, her motivation to win more medals for India would remain strong. Bhaker also kindly requested that people refrain from speculating on the matter.
This year, in addition to Bhaker, the other recipients of the award include Harmanpreet Singh, the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. The recipients will be honored in a special ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025, where the President of India will present the awards. This prestigious event will acknowledge the exceptional achievements of these athletes and celebrate their contributions to Indian sports.
Manu Bhaker made history during the Paris Olympics in August 2024, becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single edition of the Games. Bhaker secured a bronze in both the 10m air pistol individual event and the 10m air pistol mixed team event. Her remarkable performance at the Olympics was a milestone for Indian shooting and solidified her place as one of the country’s top shooters.
D Gukesh, at just 18 years old, has also achieved remarkable success. The young chess prodigy became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, making waves in the global chess community. In addition to his individual success, Gukesh played a pivotal role in India’s historic gold medal victory at the Chess Olympiad the previous year. His exceptional skills and achievements have earned him recognition as one of the brightest stars in the world of chess.
Harmanpreet Singh, the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, also earned a place among the Khel Ratna awardees. Under his leadership, the team secured its second consecutive bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, further cementing his legacy in Indian sports. Harmanpreet’s skill on the field, combined with his leadership abilities, made a significant impact on the success of the Indian men’s hockey team.
Praveen Kumar, the fourth recipient of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, was honored for his incredible performance at the Paris Paralympics, where he won the T64 high-jump title. The T64 classification is for athletes with one or both legs amputated below the knee, who rely on prosthetic legs for running. Kumar’s victory in this event was a testament to his determination and athleticism, inspiring many in the para-athlete community.
The Ministry of Sports has confirmed that the awardees will receive their accolades at the prestigious ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025. This ceremony will not only recognize their outstanding achievements but will also serve as a moment to celebrate the growth of Indian sports on the global stage. As they prepare to receive the Khel Ratna Award, these athletes stand as role models for future generations, demonstrating the power of hard work, perseverance, and dedication in achieving greatness.
The recognition of Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar serves as a proud moment for Indian sports, highlighting the talent and potential of the country’s athletes. Their achievements have not only brought them individual success but have also contributed to India’s growing reputation in international sports. As these athletes receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, they inspire the next generation of sports enthusiasts to pursue excellence and bring glory to the nation.