Sarabjot Singh Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Sarabjot Singh’s success in his shooting career will mark the reason for the honor of the prestigious Arjuna Award, which he is to receive from no other than the President Of India, Shri Droupadi Murmu on January 17, 2025. A Bit More About The Arjuna Award The Arjuna Award is awarded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to the Indian sportspersons with exceptional performances in their respective sports. For Sarabjot Singh, it was the fruit of sheer hard work, more so after an inspiring performance in the Paris Olympics 2024. Sarabjot Singh’s Stunning Performances At Paris 2024 Sarabjot Singh was part of history with Manu Bhaker in the mixed team event 10m pistol in the Paris Olympics 2024. Then, this disheartening moment came when Sarabjot Singh was barely missing the mark and could not get his way into the final of the competition in men’s 10m pistol. Here, the gallant Sarabjot Singh was a star player when he joined Manu Bhaker and brought India’s second Olympic medal at Paris 2024 as a bronze medal in the mixed team event. Sarabjot Singh’s Story Sarabjot Singh comes from Dheen village in Ambala, Haryana. His father is a farmer, and mother is a homemaker: Jatinder Singh and Hardeep Kaur. Sarabjot had the simplest of backgrounds. He was a student of DAV College, Chandigarh, coached by Abhishek Rana. Was Sarabjot Singh Always Into Shooting? Sarabjot Singh was into shooting initially because kids used to practice at summer camp with air guns. He always wanted to become a footballer. He had been drawn towards the shooting sport as he saw many young shooters. When he was 13, Sarabjot Singh expressed his desire to his father to take up shooting as a sport. His father was apprehensive of the fact that it was too expensive. Sarabjot’s determination made him take up shooting. His persistence paid off with a Gold medal at the 2019 Junior World Championship in Suhl. Sarabjot Singh And Manu Bhaker Script History This is history in the making as Sarabjot Singh and Manu Bhaker bagged a bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol mixed team on July 30, 2024, in Paris at Chateauroux Shooting Centre. For all the series of the competition, the Indian duo managed to lead and establish an initial advantage going into the final round where they remained well-attentive, closing out the South Korean challenge, 16-10. Sarabjot Singh At The Olympics Sarabjot Singh had no easy sailing at the Olympics. Sarabjot could not qualify for the finals of the qualification round in men’s 10m air pistol; he did come close, though. Ninth place is not far from a medal. Disappointed yet composed, Sarabjot Singh had decided to take this experience as a lesson. Interviewed by the host broadcaster right after the qualification round, Sarabjot confessed to an off day and vowed to put in extra efforts and make amends later on. It was sheer persistence and composure of Sarabjot Singh that he went out to win this gold medal with Manu Bhaker in such a milestone. Little did this small town from Dheen village know that one among its villagers would soon go out to win his Olympic medal. Such is the relentless dedication and passion that Sarabjot Singh has for shooting. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Swapnil Kusale Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Swapnil Kusale is set to receive the Arjuna Award which will be given by the President of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu on January 17th, 2025. A Bit More About The Arjuna Award The Arjuna Award by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is taken as an award for extraordinary performances by sportspersons in international events. Kusale is finally being awarded in the manner that all his struggle throughout his career will come to an end with this big performance at Paris Olympics 2024. Swapnil Kusale Takes The Indian Flag High At Paris 2024 All of it would eventually lead to Swapnil Kusale leaving with the Bronze in the Men’s 50m 3-Position Shooting Event of the 2024 Paris Olympics. That would mean not only he would find his name etched in the pages of Olympic history but also, on that day, India would add its third medal of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The score in the final was 451.4. This surely speaks to Swapnil Kusale’s skills and composure in the heat of the moment, as he claimed his first-ever Olympic medal on debut. He is as poised under extreme competition that had almost bettered the colour of his medal in an extremely competitive field. A pretty special win by Swapnil Kusale in Paris comes at the end of long years of toil and commitment which places him firmly in the rank of shooting stars of India. Swapnil Kusale’s Rise To The Shooting Stardom Swapnil Kusale’s sports career began at the age of 19 years. Kusale had enrolled in the Maharashtra-based sports development program Krida Prabhodini to begin training there way back in 2009. The following year Swapnil Kushale’s had made up his mind that he will focus on the shooting sport- and it is going to make his life while being one of the most promising shooters for India. Swapnil Kusale Making A Mark The milestones mark Swapnil Kusale’s ascendancy in the shooting world. In 2015, he bagged a gold medal in the junior category of the 50m rifle prone event during the Asian Shooting Championships held in Kuwait. He impressed at national events, winning gold at both the 59th and the 61st National Shooting Championships in the 50m rifle events. In 2022, Swapnil Kusale had won himself an Olympic quota for India by securing fourth position at the World Championship in Cairo, Egypt, in the men’s 50m rifle 3-position. This was thus when he sealed his seat to Paris 2024, which he finally wanted to stamp his presence there. Swapnil Kusale’s Journey To The Top Swapnil Kusale did not find an easy way to the top. He suffered a gigantic health blow in 2023 when he acquired a chronic tonsil problem which caused a great deal of ache and fever, but also weakened him at the same time. Through some doctors, it was finally diagnosed with lactose intolerance. Kusale was not going to let this one obstacle come between him, and he fought against that painful physical scenario, which kept going to training till the end so that he eventually won the trials for the Olympic games of 2024. His stature in adversity makes his legacy one of the most determined athletes India has ever seen. Swapnil Kusale’s Story of Inspiration An otherwise illustrious career now has an enhanced light through parallels drawn with that other cricketing superstar, MS Dhoni. His life is perhaps the most relevant example of somebody who juggled a high-paying job with high-octane sports. Kusale has been the ticket collector on Central Railways since 2015. Indeed, it finds a parallel when one considers the life history of MS. Dhoni, who as a cricketer was himself a professional during his time of playing. Similarity Between MS Dhoni And Swapnil Kusale Both MS Dhoni and Swapnil Kusale are known to be very calm and composed under pressure, which has been a major reason for their success. Dhoni has had a great influence on Swapnil Kusale, as the story of the legendary cricketer who rose from the grassroots and excelled under pressure has been a big time source of inspiration for the shooter. Looking Ahead The country is celebrating him as a commitment and talent show as Swapnil Kusale is set to receive the Arjuna Award. This is going to be the most memorable episode in Indian sports and is quite apt for an excellent contribution of his to the world of shooting in getting the Arjuna Award. Still looking for more, this is just the start for Swapnil Kusale, who is going to be eyed by India in years ahead as a sure prospect for glory on the international stage, for he has already attained the pinnacle and the Arjuna Award marks just one milestone in his magnificent career. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Rubina Francis Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Rubina Francis is set to receive the prestigious Arjuna Award from the President of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu, on January 17th, 2025. The Arjuna Award is given for her appreciation of her brilliant performances and excellence in para-shooting. A Bit More About The Arjuna Award In recognition of excellence in sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports institutes the award with outstanding performances by an individual or a team as a group in international competition; the most prized sporting awards that existed in the country, with the exception of the coveted award known as Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award which began in the 1991-92 years, was Arjuna Award. Rubina Francis’ Early Days Rubina Francis was born with talipes, also commonly known as clubfoot, meaning that it wasn’t easy to stand steadily over the target-being one of the most basic conditions of shooting games. Yet she never let such a condition prevail over her. Rubina Francis seemed rather to derive a kind of energetic strength from what was, of course, both the challenge-and the necessity-for all that had to be left outside. However, with all these, Rubina Francis was also shooting from the seated position on an early stage that made the sport already demanding much more tricky. But her spirit was never broken down and with the full support of some coaches who found solutions to every stopper, she could finally hone her technique in shooting. Rubina Francis’ Road To Glory Rubina Francis’ competitive para-shooting entry began seriously when she entered MP Shooting Academy in 2015. Nautiyal, Subhash Rana and other coaches eventually shone through her potential. One of the main turning points came when she participated in the France World Cup of 2018. A tournament where she realized what her main target was: first, something she had to obtain would be a Paralympic quota. Perseverance with training helped place her firmly on the map towards international glory. That grueling pay off was, in 2021, for a silver in the Para World Championships held at Lima, Peru, followed with a bronze in the Para Asian Games hosted at China. However, it only got to a whole new dimension when, this time around at the Paris Paralympics in 2024, where Rubina Francis clinched women’s 10m air pistol SH1 bronzes in women’s categories. Rubina Francis is the first pistol shooter from India to win a Paralympic medal. With her final score of 211.1, she sealed the rightful podium spot. Rubina Francis’ Parents Become A Major Support Rubina Francis’s success story not only speaks about individual grit, but also the support from her family with no conditions at all. Rubina Francis’ father runs a garage and the mother is a nurse. However, despite a lot of financial issues, they never let their child down; instead, they motivated and empowered her at every stage. The strong support of the family has made it easier and possible for Rubina Francis to pursue her interest and shatter barriers while pursuing it. How Rubina Francis Is An Icon For Generations To Come? This has brought Rubina Francis’ name into the history books of the Paralympics. Success she brought in her life, also inspired the aspirant athletes of India, especially those with disabilities, to reach newer heights in life. Rubina Francis To Receive Arjuna Award Rubina Francis is now set to win the Arjuna Award. She has been known to narrate a story much more substantial than just medals and victory in shooting competitions since her tale portrays strength in human spirits, determination powers and focuses more on not losing hope or letting dreams fade regardless of how improbable it is. Rubina Francis showed that nothing was impossible and para-shooting will continue inspiring numerous athletes to compete with pride, come future generations. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Mona Agarwal Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Mona Agarwal is set to receive the prestigious Arjuna Award from President of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu, on January 17th, 2025. The Arjuna Award is given for her appreciation of her brilliant performances and excellence in para-shooting. A Bit More About The Arjuna Award It is annually presented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The Arjuna Award was India’s most prestigious honor for athletes till the inception of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna in 1991-1992. Requests for the award are accepted from each of the sport’s bodies recognized by the government, National Sports Federations, Indian Olympic Association, SAI, Sports Promotion and Control Boards, state governments and past winners. Who Is Mona Agarwal? Mona Agarwal is one of the fastest-emerging para-shooters in the world sporting arena. She made a grand assertion by bagging a bronze medal in R2 Women 10m Air Rifle SH1 during the 2024 Paralympics. Mona Agarwal’s Early Life Mona Agarwal was born on 8 November 1987 in Sikar, Rajasthan. She suffered from polio at nine months of age, which paralyzed her lower limbs, however, she didn’t give up on education. Mona Agarwal completed her graduation in arts and then pursued a master’s degree in psychology through distance learning. Mona Agarwal’s First Attempt At Para-Sports Mona Agarwal, at the age of 23 made a bold decision to leave home and build an independent life. She worked very hard in HR and marketing roles and now has many stories to tell on the several hurdles she went through to achieve success. In 2016, Mona Agarwal focused more on para-athletics. Mona made her State debut in throw events where she grabbed gold in all three categories. Mona Agarwal also did her para powerlifting at the State level, earning multiple medals. Mona Agarwal – A Real Life All-Rounder Apart from this success in her sporting career, Mona Agarwal has been a trendsetter for women’s sitting volleyball in India. She had led the Rajasthan State team to gold in the first-ever National Sitting Volleyball Championship for women in 2019. Mona Agarwal was also picked for an international tournament, however, could not take part as she was pregnant then. When Did Mona Agarwal Come Across Para-Shooting? From December 2021, Mona Agarwal started shooting with rifles, a sport she took up as an individual. By the end of 2022, her potential was set in stone when she bagged the silver medal at the national level. By mid-2023, Mona Agarwal had won a bronze medal in the mixed team event in her first international World Cup and stood 6th at the Asian Para Games 4th edition. In her fourth international event, she finally won gold medals and Paralympic quota with an Asian record. Indeed such an incredible feat has really cemented her as a para-shooter among the top gunners on the international arena. Indian Government’s Support To Mona Agarwal The Indian Government played a very pivotal role in making Mona Agarwal a parashooter through various vital programs such as Khelo India and the National Centre of Excellence. This gave them much-needed financial support. By opting for such schemes, Mona Agarwal availed herself of all high-class facilities- stay and training at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, New Delhi. She was provided with all necessary sports equipment and accessories for the training. This total support has been very crucial in enabling Mona Agarwal to find her field and continue her vision of competing for India in the Paralympics. This makes Mona Agarwal’s story of sheer grit and accomplishment. Really such achievements by way of para-shooting make her certainly a capable candidate for the Arjuna Award. The President Of India & Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports must feel very proud to present the Arjuna Award to Mona Agarwal on January 17, 2025. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Manish Ramadass Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Manisha Ramadass is a dazzling para-badminton player who will receive the esteemed Arjuna Award from President of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu, on January 17th, 2025. This is in appreciation of her brilliant performances and excellence in para-badminton. What Is An Arjuna Award? The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports bestows the Arjuna Award each year. The Arjuna Award was India’s highest athletic honour prior to the introduction of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna in 1991–1992. All government recognised sports organisations – the National Sports Federations, Indian Olympic Association, SAI, Sports Promotion and Control Boards as well as the governments of the states and union territories and the awardees of the previous year are eligible to nominate candidates for the award. Manisha Ramadass’s Victory At Paris 2024 At just 19 years old, Manisha made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a badminton medal at the Paralympics. In a stunning performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, she defeated Denmark’s Cathrine Rosengren 21-12, 21-8 in the final of the SU5 category. The match lasted only 25 minutes at the LA Chapelle Arena Court 3, and Manisha claimed her maiden medal at the event, etching her name in the annals of Indian badminton history. Manisha Ramadass’s Passion For Sports Manisha Ramadass has a passion for athletic challenges since the age of 11 years, and, with Erb’s Palsy birth defect, she showed lots of determination; hence, the encouragement from one of her friends made her opt for para-badminton in 2019. Her very first appearance in the Para Badminton State Championship marked the start of what has been quite an illustrious career. Who Inspired Manisha Ramadass? Inspired by badminton legend Saina Nehwal, Manisha Ramadass was motivated to pursue her dreams in badminton. Besides badminton, she enjoys playing football and table tennis. In her very first year of competition, Manisha achieved the remarkable feat of becoming World No. 1 in para-badminton. A World Champion Manisha Ramadass has been impressive at the world stage, and one of her crowning achievements has been a gold medal at the 2022 World Championships in Japan, making her a world champion. Apart from the gold medal, Manisha Ramadass has always stood on the podium at international events, winning three bronze medals at the 2022 Asian Para Games, making it her debut at the same event. Future Awaits For Manisha Ramadass Manisha Ramadass, with her incredible achievements and still going strong with para-badminton, stands as a shining candidate to win further laurels for the country, at least at the Paris Paralympics. An Arjuna Award is truly justified for her undying dedication and talent in service to the game. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Annu Rani Takes Home The Arjuna Award 2024
Indian javelin thrower Annu Rani will be awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award 2024 on January 17, 2025 by the President Of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has honored Annu Rani with the prestigious award for her outstanding contributions in athletics and outstanding performances on the international arena. Annu Rani’s Early Life Annu Rani was born on 28 August 1992 in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Annu Rani was not a career girl from stardom. Annu Rani was a lower-middle-class girl, and though her father could never believe that athletics would be a career for his daughter, it was actually her brother Upendra who encouraged Annu Rani to take up javelin throw as a sport. And due to availability of limited resources and limited finance, she fashioned her first javelin out of bamboo. How Annu Rani Climbed Up The Ladder? It has been Annu Rani breaking national records in 2014 that initiated her illustrious career into javelin throws. She was the very first Indian woman to qualify herself for the women’s javelin throw finals, at the World Athletics Championships for the first time in 2019, whose caliber shines on any international platform. Annu Rani won a bronze medal at Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 and became the first-ever Indian lady javelin thrower who was able to receive a medal in the event itself. Annu Rani’s Exceptional 2023 In 2023, Annu Rani won the gold medal in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, thereby going to the pinnacle of her career. This established her as one of the best javelin throwers in the world. Annu Rani did not manage to qualify for the Paris Olympics 2024 on merit but received a spot there through the ranking quota, which reflects the sort of unrelenting determination she needed to give her best. A Role Model for Future Generations Annu Rani’s victory inspires women in India to challenge set societal norms, empower the next generation of female athletes and gives a declaration of hard work and breaking barriers into the world of athletics, hence making her a true role model for aspiring athletes. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Praveen Kumar Takes Home The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports conferred the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 on India’s para-athletics star, Praveen Kumar. The prestigious award bestowed by the President Of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu shows Praven Kumar’s extraordinary contributions to the world of para-athletics and his exceptional performances. A Bit About Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, instituted in 1991 as a tribute to the legendary Indian hockey icon, Major Dhyan Chand, is the highest sports award given in India. It was established to appreciate the athletes for their exemplary achievement in their sports at an international level. The Government Of India will now take pride in awarding Praveen Kumar with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 on 17th January, 2025. Praveen Kumar’s Journey Of Devotion Praveen Kumar is a para-athlete who competes in the Men’s High Jump event. He has managed to capture the imagination of sports enthusiasts across the country. Born in Jewar, Uttar Pradesh, he had a congenital impairment that affects the bones connecting the hips to the legs. However, Praveen has proved himself to be one of India’s most promising para-athletes. Praven Kumar’s Hunt For Medals His adventure into sports began in the year 2019. He won a silver medal at the World Para Junior Championships in Switzerland. Under the able guidance of coach Satyapal Singh, his potential caught the eye immediately. In the shortest possible time, he won a silver at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics with a jump of 2.07 meters. Praveen Kumar’s ‘High-Jump’ In Para-Athletics Praveen Kumar won the gold in World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2022 and in the Asian Para Games 2023 in Hangzhou, smashing the records and emerging successful not just as another winner but also smasher of all time Games records. Huge applause and cheering have Praveen Kumar and achieving a gold for the first time at the 2024 Paris Paralympics place him firmly amongst one of the most decorated Indian para-athletes ever. Praveen Kumar Serves As An Inspiration The story of Praveen Kumar is full of hard work, and inspiration. What makes his journey unique is the unique entry into the world of para-sports. Praveen Kumar, being a keen volleyball player during his school days, found para-athletics after a very inspiring Google search wherein he came to know about high jump as an option for his sport. He has received international recognition and accolades through his commitment and passion for his craft. The support comes in the form of Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) backing for Praveen Kumar, who has secured admission at Delhi University. Coach Satyapal Singh has been quite instrumental in ensuring he reaches the pinnacle of success in para-athletics. It speaks of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024, testifying to the relentless toil and will to succeed put forth by Praveen Kumar. He inspires generations with hope and makes others believe that there is still more for them, especially in para-sports, which are still budding sports. Praveen Kumar To Receive The Khel Ratna The journey of Praveen Kumar in para-athletics is far from over with his eyes on further success. Preparations have already begun as he is to receive the Khel Ratna Award on January 17, 2025 and India looks forward to more milestones in the remarkable career of one of India’s brightest stars in para-sports. Praveen Kumar’s success proves that no challenge is ever insurmountable as long as passion and perseverance are at play. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Harmanpreet Singh Takes Home The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024
The Indian Men’s Hockey Team Captain, Harmanpreet Singh, is set to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 granted by the President of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu on January 17, 2025. Indeed it would be perfect and beautiful recognition of his great contributions toward Indian hockey and the unforgettable success he had in the international arena. Where Did It All Start For Harmanpreet Singh? From the panchayat poodle of a small hamlet in Punjab to an erstwhile career in mythology, Harmanpreet Singh is that name who today boasts of being the world’s greatest drag-flicker and is a role model for crores of aspirants. From having a consistent belief in self-performance to sheer dedication and devotion, Harmanpreet Singh, as a player, Captain and defensive guru, has, instead of redefining a hockey defender’s role, increased the ante of India against the world stage. Was Harmanpreet Singh Always Into Hockey? Harmanpreet was exposed to the world of sport at a pretty young age; he played his fair share of games like cricket, volleyball, football, however, hockey would definitely call his name. And when he was 10, he discovered this game, however, by the time he reached 15, it wasn’t unusual to see him honing his skills at the Surjit Singh Hockey Academy. He wanted to be a forward, but destiny had other plans. He turned out to be a master drag-flicker and went on to define his career as one of the finest exponents of the skill in world hockey. Harmanpreet Singh Making Waves In Junior Tournaments This is the reason with which Harmanpreet Singh has graduated to the top rank of hockey after performing miraculously well in junior tournaments, one of which was the 2014 Sultan of Johor Cup, from which he brought home the Man of the Tournament title after scoring nine goals. He was also the Top Scorer in both the 2015 Junior Asia Cup and Junior World Cup, which actually helped him move to the senior national team for which he made his debut in 2015. Harmanpreet Singh’s Leadership Takes India To New Heights Harmanpreet Singh is the captain of the Indian Hockey Team. Under his leadership, India achieved some historic wins. India finally ended the 41-year Olympic medal drought when India clinched a bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He further illuminated leadership in helping the team bring another Olympic medal home for the 2024 Paris Games. He led India to win the gold medal at the Asian Games 2022. Here, he asserted himself as the most influential player in Indian hockey. Why Do We Call Harmanpreet Singh As ‘Sarpanch Sahab’? Harmanpreet Singh is one of those sportspersons from the country, who keeps his cool nerves are tense times and delivers under pressure. Therefore, people love giving him the sobriquet “Sarpanch Sahab,” a leader, who is in charge, not only out there in the fields but also on the field. He boasts of penalty corners that are precision-oriented and breaks into opposition defenses with a precision drag-flick that makes him one of the most feared persons across the world. Harmanpreet Singh’s Awards Cabinet It has been many years and the number of awards received seems to grow with each passing day. A three-time FIH Player of the Year, Harmanpreet Singh has won the Arjuna Award and now also the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. The award once again establishes him as one of India’s greatest hockey players. With 212 goals from 241 international matches, Harmanpreet is the modern-day torchbearer of Indian hockey, a living legend whose influence extends far beyond the playing field. Harmanpreet Singh remains very simple with so many accolades going on in the kitty. Giving all the kudos to incessant family backing by members like wife Amandeep Kaur and daughter Ruhanat Kaur. An exceptionally happy individual life away from the turf and this he would give more of his sights for taking hockey forward from a long distance of growth as an international role model toward young upcoming ones. Shining Years Ahead Now, with Harmanpreet Singh receiving the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, generations of hockey players are now moving to inspire through his journey. Staring at a plethora of tournaments on the horizon and more milestones down the road, the hockey world waits with bated breath for the next line of his illustrious career. Through dedication, leadership, and passion for the sport, Harmanpreet Singh has his place in being one of the greatest icons ever in Indian sports history. A Bit About Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, under the name of the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, was founded in 1991. India’s highest sporting honor was presented to the sportspersons for their extraordinary performance and for their contributions toward their respective games at the international level. One of the most deserving candidates for such a prestigious award is Harmanpreet Singh, due to his very unique feats in the game of hockey. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gukesh D Takes Home The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports conferred the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 on India’s chess prodigy, Gukesh D. The prestigious award bestowed by the President Of India, Sri Droupadi Murmu shows Gukesh’s extraordinary contributions to the world of chess and his exceptional performances. A Bit About Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, instituted in 1991 as a tribute to the legendary Indian hockey icon, Major Dhyan Chand, is the highest sports award given in India. It was established to appreciate the athletes for their exemplary achievement in their sports at an international level. The Government Of India will now take pride in awarding Gukesh D with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 on 17th January, 2025. Gukesh D’s Path Towards Glory Gukesh D first set foot in the chess world at seven years old in his hometown, Chennai. It was at school that the game was introduced to him and after six months of playing, he became a FIDE-rated player. Early talent and hard work thus set him on a series of successes internationally. How Gukesh D Climbed Up The Ladder? Gukesh D’s first major victory for him came in 2015 when he emerged as U-9 Asian Schools Chess Champion, which promoted him to the rank of Candidate Master (CM). He never stopped moving ahead and his successes include five gold medals at the Asian Youth Chess Championships held in various formats in 2018 and the U-12 World Youth Chess Championship that same year. In March 2018, Gukesh earned the title of International Master (IM) and by the end of January in 2019, at only 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days, he stood as the second youngest Grandmaster (GM) in history, finishing just 17 days shy of the record book. Although his record was surpassed, Gukesh’s exploits remained a symbol of his brilliant talent. Gukesh D Making History At The 44th Chess Olympiad And Beyond At the 44th Chess Olympiad in 2022, Gukesh rose to a new height by taking part in the event held in his home city of Chennai. He scored an impressive 9/11, earning an individual gold medal and played a pivotal role in helping India finish on a historic bronze medal finish. This was followed by another milestone: Gukesh crossed the 2700 rating mark, reaching a career-high of 2726 and becoming the third youngest player to do so after Wei Yi and Alireza Firouzja. Apart from his performances at the Olympiad, Gukesh D made history by becoming the youngest player to defeat World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen in a rapid event. He continued his meteoric rise into 2023 when he became the youngest player to achieve a 2750 rating, breaking Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand’s hold on the top spot for the first time in 37 years. Gukesh D’s Road To Victory Till The World Chess Championship 2024 Gukesh’s performances turned in a crowning glory when he qualified for the 2024 Candidates Tournament, making him the third youngest player to qualify for this prestigious event, after Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen. His success didn’t end there – in December 2024, Gukesh became the youngest-ever Chess World Champion after a thrilling 14th-round victory over Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship in Singapore. His meteoric rise has not only cemented his place among the best players but also placed a new phenomenon for young chess players in India and worldwide. Family And Community Support Behind every success story there is a super support system. Gukesh’s journey is the same. Believed in a lot by parents, Dr Rajnikant and Dr Padma, Gukesh’s triumph is a corollary to their belief about his potential. As a surgeon and father, all aspects of life, including a social media presence as well as itinerary for travel events, were arranged by him because he accompanied the young boy, Gukesh, to cross the globe playing tournaments. Meanwhile, his mother played a great role in boosting him emotionally. She encouraged him constantly with both victories and setbacks. His educational journey also had a lot to do with his chess career. Gukesh D is a student of Velammal Vidhyalaya in Chennai, which has produced many promising chess talents like Grandmasters Kartikeyan, Arvind Chitambaram and Praggnanandhaa. The Future Shines Bright For Gukesh D Gukesh D’s ascendancy to the peak of world chess has not only been great, but even fabulous. Having crossed 18, his victories had rewritten history regarding what Indian juniors were considered capable of doing. Through this Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, contributions made by Gukesh D are officially marked by the country and seems to brighten up more promisingly. As he continues to compete on the highest levels, Gukesh D’s passion, dedication and natural talent will inspire hundreds of young chess enthusiasts worldwide that, with determination, the game of kings can be conquered indeed. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye