In a special function at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Draupadi Murmu bestowed the Arjuna Award upon para-archer Rakesh Kumar from Jammu and Kashmir. Kumar, who hails from Reasi district, is the third para-archer to receive this prestigious award, and his exceptional performance in the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo made him a top contender. He represented India at the Paralympics and has a world ranking of No. 1 in compound archery. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha have both congratulated Kumar on his achievement.
Indian athletes including boxer Saweety Boora and hockey players were awarded the prestigious Arjuna Awards by President Droupadi Murmu during the National Sports Awards ceremony. Chess grandmaster Vantika Agrawal and athlete Jyothi Yarraji were also conferred with the Arjuna Award for their remarkable performances at the Chess Olympiad and Paris Olympics respectively. Boora dedicated her award to her family and supporters, while Vantika was part of the first-ever Indian women's team to win gold at the Chess Olympiad. Despite not qualifying for the semifinals at the Olympics, Jyothi's achievement was recognized through this honor.
Four elite Indian athletes were recognized for their outstanding performances and achievements in the field of sports by President Droupadi Murmu. The prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award was presented to D. Gukesh, Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar, acknowledging their significant contributions to India’s success in various international events. Along with these four honorees, 32 athletes were also awarded with the Arjuna Award during the ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025.
President Droupadi Murmu honoured some of the country's top athletes with the prestigious sports award - Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award at a special ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This award is given every year to recognise and reward excellence in sports and is given to sportspersons for their outstanding performance in their respective fields over a period of four years. This year's recipients include the youngest-ever World Chess Champion Gukesh D, Paris Olympics and Paralympics medallists Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar. Additionally, 17 para-athletes were also honoured with the Arjuna Award, which is given for outstanding performance in sports and games with qualities of leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline.
Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medallist, received the Arjuna Award after 52 years of his historic achievement. Sajid Nadiadwala produced the film Chandu Champion, which depicts Petkar's story, and the athlete expressed his gratitude towards Nadiadwala, director Kabir Khan, and actor Kartik for bringing his inspiring journey to the big screen. Petkar's multi-sport career and his success in para-swimming serve as a testament to his determination and serve as an inspiration for many in the country.
Former Commonwealth Games gold medalist and Saina Nehwal's husband, Kashyap, recently shared his experience of meeting MS Dhoni at a wedding. Despite introducing himself as Saina's husband, Dhoni recognized Kashyap and spoke to him like a friend and teammate. The former India captain has been fondly known as 'Thala' and holds an impressive record in the ICC, IPL, and international matches. On the other hand, Kashyap was awarded the Arjuna Award in 2012 for his achievements in badminton.
After nearly 20 years of representing India in football, Sunil Chhetri, the country's top goal-scorer, has announced his retirement in an emotional video on his social media. He has been an instrumental figure in the growth of football's popularity in India and has been honored with numerous awards, including the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri. Chhetri's net worth is estimated at Rs 8 crore, with most of his wealth coming from his football salary, lucrative endorsements charging Rs 1 crore per brand, and successful businesses.
On Thursday, May 16th, Sunil Chhetri, one of the most renowned footballers in India, officially declared his retirement from international football after a 20-year career. The 39-year-old captain's final game for India will be on Thursday, June 6th, against Kuwait in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match. Chhetri's decision was not due to fatigue, but rather a desire to give opportunities to young strikers and continue inspiring the nation and the world with his remarkable legacy. Throughout his illustrious career, Chhetri has received numerous prestigious accolades, including the Arjuna Award in 2011 for his impressive achievements in football.
India's 2021 Arjuna Award winner Varun Kumar, a player for the Punjab Warriors, has been accused of raping a minor while she was receiving training at the Sports Authority of India's South Division in Bengaluru. The victim, who was chosen for volleyball by the National Center of Excellence, stated that Kumar had allegedly promised to marry her and had forced physical contact with her when she was 17. Kumar, who is currently a member of India's roster for the 2023–24 FIH Hockey Pro League, is facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Assault (POCSO) Act. His team will be facing off against Spain in their first game of the season.
.jpg "Virat Kohli's Heartfelt Message for Mohammed Shami After Receiving Arjuna Award")
India's fast bowler Mohammed Shami was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award by President Droupadi Murmu for his outstanding performance in the World Cup 2023. Shami, currently recovering from an ankle injury, shared a video of the event on his Instagram where he thanked his coach, BCCI, teammates, family, and fans for their support. Virat Kohli's special message in the comments section stood out, making fans emotional.