The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award is the highest sporting honor in India. It was created in 1991 in the name of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, to recognize and honor the achievements of outstanding sportspersons. This year, the award was conferred upon Dhyan Chand, the legendary hockey player from India, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest sportspersons of all time. The sports world welcomed the award in his name with great enthusiasm.
Introduction to Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award
The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award is the highest sporting honor in India. It is conferred annually by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to recognize and honor the achievements of outstanding sportspersons. The award was instituted in 1991 in the name of late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, to recognize excellence in sports. It is given for the highest level of performance over a period of four years at the international level. The award carries a cash prize of ₹7.5 lakh, a medallion and a citation.
Dhyan Chand and His Achievements in Sports
Dhyan Chand was an Indian field hockey player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest sportspersons of all time. He was born in Allahabad, India in 1905 and began his hockey career in 1922. He represented India in the 1928, 1932 and 1936 Olympics and was part of the team that won gold medals in all three games. He was known for his extraordinary goal-scoring feats and outstanding ball control. He scored more than 400 goals in his international career and was nicknamed ‘The Wizard’ for his amazing skills. He was also the captain of the Indian hockey team from 1926 to 1948.
Dhyan Chand as Inspiration for the Award
The award in the name of Dhyan Chand was established to honor his legacy of excellence in sports. He was an inspiration to many young sportspersons, and this award is a fitting tribute to his achievements. It is a symbol of recognition for his immense contribution to Indian hockey.
Reactions from Sports World
The sports world welcomed the award in the name of Dhyan Chand with great enthusiasm. Many sportspersons and celebrities expressed their happiness and admiration for the legendary hockey player. The president of the Indian Olympic Association, Narinder Batra, said that the award was a fitting tribute to the great hockey player and would be an inspiration to future generations of sportspersons.
What Celebrities Said About the Award
Bollywood actor Aamir Khan said that this award was a great way to honor the achievements
