Did Hockey India Congratulate PR Sreejesh for Receiving the Prestigious Padma Bhushan?
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Synopsis
PR Sreejesh, a celebrated former goalkeeper and current coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Team, has been awarded the Padma Bhushan. This honor not only recognizes his extraordinary contributions to hockey but also places him amongst the legends of the sport. Read on to discover the highlights of his illustrious career and the impact he continues to have on Indian hockey.
Key Takeaways
- PR Sreejesh received the prestigious Padma Bhushan.
- He is only the second hockey player to achieve this honour.
- His career includes participation in four Olympic Games.
- Sreejesh has won multiple awards including the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year.
- He continues to influence the sport through coaching.
New Delhi, April 28 (NationPress) PR Sreejesh, the distinguished former goalkeeper of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and now the coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Team, has been awarded the Padma Bhushan, which is India’s third-highest civilian honour.
On Monday, Hockey India expressed their pride in congratulating Sreejesh on this remarkable achievement.
This esteemed recognition places Sreejesh in the same league as the iconic Major Dhyan Chand, marking him as only the second hockey player in history to earn the Padma Bhushan. Dhyan Chand received this honour in 1956, and nearly 70 years later, Sreejesh's significant contributions to Indian hockey have earned him a rightful place among the legends.
Often referred to as the “God of Modern Indian Hockey,” Sreejesh enjoyed an illustrious career spanning 18 years, earning 336 international caps for India before he plans to retire after the Paris 2024 Olympics. He consistently delivered exceptional performances, leading India to a Bronze medal, complementing the historic Bronze win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Throughout his illustrious journey, Sreejesh garnered multiple accolades, including the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Award three times (2021, 2022, and 2024), the Arjuna Award in 2015, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, and the World Games Athlete of the Year in 2021. Since his senior international debut in 2010, he has been a cornerstone of the Indian defense, renowned for his poise and excellence under pressure.
Making a seamless transition into coaching, Sreejesh recently guided the Indian junior team to victory in the Junior Asia Cup held in November 2024, further contributing to the narrative of Indian hockey's success.
Sreejesh's impressive career highlights include participation in four Olympic Games (London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024), two Asian Games Gold medals (2014 and 2022), an Asian Games Bronze medal (2018), and two Commonwealth Games Silver medals (2014 and 2022). Additionally, he played a key role in India's victories at the Asian Champions Trophy on four occasions (2011, 2016, 2018, and 2023).
Reflecting on this significant achievement, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey remarked, “PR Sreejesh’s impact on Indian hockey, both as a player and now as a coach, has been remarkable. He embodies dedication, excellence, and leadership. This Padma Bhushan serves as a deserving tribute to a career that has motivated countless young athletes across India. On behalf of Hockey India, I extend my warmest congratulations to him and his family.”
Adding to the sentiments, Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh mentioned, “Sreejesh has been the pulse of Indian hockey’s resurgence on the global stage. His accomplishments represent not just personal milestones but are proud moments for the entire hockey community. We are immensely proud of him and are eager to see how he shapes the future of Indian hockey through his coaching.”
Point of View
I believe that PR Sreejesh's recognition with the Padma Bhushan is a significant moment not just for him but for Indian hockey as a whole. His journey from a player to a coach reflects the evolution of the sport in India. Such achievements build a legacy that inspires future generations of athletes. We stand united in celebrating this honor that enriches our national pride.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is PR Sreejesh?
PR Sreejesh is a former goalkeeper of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and the current coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Team.
What award did PR Sreejesh receive?
He received the Padma Bhushan, which is India's third-highest civilian award.
How many times has Sreejesh been awarded the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year?
Sreejesh has been awarded the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year three times (2021, 2022, and 2024).
What are some of Sreejesh's career highlights?
He has played in four Olympic Games, won multiple Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medals, and has been a crucial player in India's success at various international tournaments.
What has been Sreejesh's impact on Indian hockey?
His contributions as a player and now as a coach have been pivotal in the resurgence of Indian hockey on the global stage, inspiring young athletes across the nation.
