India's former hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh was conferred with the Padma Bhushan while R Ashwin, football legend IM Vijayan, Para-Archer Harvinder Singh and para coach Satyapal Singh were given the Padma Shri awards. The list of awardees was released on Saturday, January 25 following approval from President Droupadi Murmu. The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honours of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
PR Sreejesh
Goalkeeper Sreejesh was the backbone of the Indian men's hockey team and played an integral role in India's second consecutive bronze medal at the Olympics last year. The goalkeeper announced his retirement from the sport ahead of the event in Paris. During the Olympics h produced some outstanding moments , including the shootout win against Great Britain. Following his retirement, Sreejesh was appointed as the head coach of India's junior's men team.
Ravichandran Ashwin
The cricketer from Tamil Nadu needs no introduction. He was a vital cog of India's test team and contributed immensely in team's historic wins in various countries. The off-spinner retired from the game in 2024 in the middle of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, bringing down on the curtains on a glittering career. Ashwin played 106 Tests and is the leading wicket-taker for India in the format with 537 scalps to his name.
IM Vijayan
IM Vijayan, is one of India's greatest footballers of all time. The former Kerala forward also served as India's captain during 2000-2004. Vijayan went on to score 29 international goals for India in 72 appearances.
Harvinder Singh
Para-archer Harvinder Singh, was the first Indian to win a Paralympic gold.The 33-year-old defeated Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek 6-0 in a one-sided final to script history for himself and the country.
