R Ashwin honoured with Padma Shri; Hockey legend PR Sreejesh gets Padma Bhushan

R Ashwin wins Padma Shri

India honored several sports legends with prestigious awards on Saturday, January 25, ahead of Republic Day. Former hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh was conferred with the Padma Bhushan, while cricketer R Ashwin, football legend IM Vijayan, and Paralympian Harvinder Singh received the Padma Shri awards. Satyapal Singh was also among the Padma Shri awardees.

PR Sreejesh, a key figure in Indian hockey, played a pivotal role in securing the country's second consecutive bronze medal at the Olympics last year. The goalkeeper delivered standout performances, including a decisive shootout victory against Great Britain. Following his retirement ahead of the upcoming Paris event, Sreejesh transitioned into coaching and was appointed head coach of India’s junior men’s hockey team.

R Ashwin was recognized with the Padma Shri for his remarkable contributions to cricket. The off-spinner retired in 2024 during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, ending a stellar career. Ashwin played 106 Test matches and remains India’s leading wicket-taker in the format, with an impressive tally of 537 wickets.

Football icon IM Vijayan, also honored with the Padma Shri, is celebrated as one of India’s greatest players. The former Kerala forward captained the national team from 2000 to 2004 and scored 29 international goals in 72 appearances, leaving an indelible mark on Indian football.

Paralympian Harvinder Singh, a gold medalist at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, also received the Padma Shri. Harvinder secured India’s fourth gold medal at the Games by defeating Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek in the final of the Men’s Individual Recurve Open event.

These awards recognize the exceptional contributions of these athletes to Indian sports and their inspirational journeys.