Manu Bhaker and D Gukesh to be honoured with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

India’s sports community is abuzz with pride as Manu Bhaker and D Gukesh prepare to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honour in the nation. The award, which recognises unparalleled achievement in sports, will be conferred on January 17 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Bhaker, a trailblazing shooter, and Gukesh, the youngest World Chess Champion, have carved remarkable legacies, earning them their place among Indian sports legends.

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award: Recognising Brilliance

The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is synonymous with excellence in Indian sports. Named after the hockey legend whose feats remain unparalleled, the honour celebrates athletes who have inspired generations. The addition of Bhaker and Gukesh to this prestigious roster underscores the breadth of talent in India’s sporting landscape.

Their selection reflects more than personal triumph; it signifies India’s rise as a global force in shooting and chess. As these athletes prepare to take the stage, their stories resonate with the aspirations of millions.

Manu Bhaker: A Shooting Star

Manu Bhaker’s achievements in shooting have made her a household name. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she defied expectations, clinching bronze medals in the 10m air pistol and the mixed team 10m air pistol event. This remarkable feat made Bhaker the first Indian athlete to win two individual medals in a single Olympic edition since independence.

Her journey to the Khel Ratna Award was not without challenges. Initial omissions from the shortlist sparked controversy, but the decision to honour her ultimately celebrated her indomitable spirit. Experts attribute her success to an unyielding commitment to excellence, disciplined preparation, and a calm demeanor under pressure.

Bhaker’s rise also symbolises the growing prominence of Indian women athletes on the global stage. Coaches and analysts highlight her ability to inspire young talent, positioning her as a role model for aspiring shooters.

D Gukesh: A Chess Prodigy

In the world of chess, D Gukesh’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 18 years old, he became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, a title he clinched in Singapore in 2024. His victory not only added to India’s storied chess legacy but also solidified the country’s position as a powerhouse in the sport.

Gukesh’s strategic brilliance and mental agility have drawn comparisons with legendary players. His ability to remain composed under immense pressure has been praised by chess pundits, who view him as a transformative figure for the sport in India. The Khel Ratna Award acknowledges his contribution to elevating Indian chess to new heights.

Inspiring The Next Generation

The recognition of Bhaker and Gukesh goes beyond their individual accomplishments. It serves as a testament to India’s burgeoning sports ecosystem, which is increasingly nurturing talent across diverse disciplines. Their journeys highlight the role of infrastructure, mentorship, and unwavering support in enabling athletes to achieve their full potential.

As India strives to create a more inclusive and robust sporting culture, stories like these inspire the next generation of athletes to dream big and aim high.

A Grand Celebration Of Excellence

The Khel Ratna Award ceremony will be a grand occasion, celebrating not only the achievements of Bhaker and Gukesh but also those of other luminaries, including hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. The event will symbolise India’s recognition of sporting excellence, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing and celebrating talent.

As the nation prepares to honour its brightest stars, the achievements of Bhaker and Gukesh stand as reminders of the heights that can be scaled through hard work, resilience, and unyielding determination.