Vijay Amritraj Awarded Padma Bhushan; Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur Among Padma Shri Honorees
The Government of India has announced the prestigious Padma Awards for the year 2026, with several distinguished sportspersons being recognized for their exceptional contributions. Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Padma Shri for Cricket Icons
In the realm of cricket, two prominent figures have been honored with the Padma Shri, which is India's fourth-highest civilian honour. Rohit Sharma, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, has been named as a recipient. Sharma is widely celebrated for his leadership and batting prowess, having led India in numerous international matches.
Additionally, Harmanpreet Kaur, who captained the Indian women's cricket team to victory in the 2025 ODI World Cup, has also been awarded the Padma Shri. Her achievement in guiding the team to a World Cup win has been hailed as a historic moment in Indian sports, and this recognition underscores her impact on the game.
Other Sportspersons Recognized
The list of Padma Shri awardees includes other notable sportspersons as well, such as Savita Punia and Praveen Kumar, who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. These awards highlight the government's commitment to acknowledging excellence across various sports disciplines in India.
The Padma Awards are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, and they serve to honor individuals for their distinguished service in various fields, including arts, literature, science, and sports. The recognition of these sportspersons not only celebrates their personal achievements but also inspires future generations to pursue excellence in sports.
This year's awards reflect the growing importance of sports in India's national identity and the government's efforts to promote athletic talent. The inclusion of both male and female athletes, such as Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur, emphasizes the progress being made towards gender equality in sports recognition.
As the nation prepares to celebrate Republic Day, these awards add to the festive spirit, honoring those who have brought pride and glory to India through their sporting endeavors. The achievements of Vijay Amritraj, Rohit Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, and others serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication required to excel at the highest levels of competition.
