NEW DELHI: PR Sreejesh Padma Bhushan recognition cements his place among hockey legends, as Hockey India proudly congratulated the iconic goalkeeper and coach for receiving Indiaโs third-highest civilian honour.
This historic achievement places PR Sreejesh alongside the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, who was conferred the Padma Bhushan back in 1956. Sreejesh is only the second hockey player ever to receive this prestigious award, marking a monumental moment for Indian sports.
Sreejeshโs Glittering Career and Ongoing Contributions
Celebrated as the โGod of Modern Indian Hockey,โ Sreejesh enjoyed a spectacular 18-year international career, earning 336 caps for India. He was instrumental in Indiaโs Bronze medal wins at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, where his heroic saves became the cornerstone of Indian defense.
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In his career, Sreejesh bagged multiple honors, including three FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Awards (2021, 2022, 2024), the Arjuna Award (2015), the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2021), and the World Games Athlete of the Year Award (2021). Since retiring post-Paris 2024, he has transitioned into coaching and recently led Indiaโs junior menโs team to victory at the Junior Asia Cup 2024.
Reacting to the honour, Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey said:
โPR Sreejeshโs contribution to Indian hockey, both as a player and now as a coach, has been extraordinary. He exemplifies dedication, excellence, and leadership. This Padma Bhushan is a fitting tribute to a career that has inspired countless young players across India. On behalf of Hockey India, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him and his family.โ
Sharing his appreciation, Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh stated:
โSreejesh has been the heart of Indian hockeyโs resurgence on the world stage. His achievements are not just personal milestones but proud moments for the entire hockey fraternity. We are extremely proud of him and look forward to seeing him shape the future of Indian hockey through his coaching.โ
PR Sreejeshโs journey, marked by appearances in four Olympics, multiple Asian Games, Commonwealth Games medals, and several Asian Champions Trophy victories, continues to inspire a new generation of players and reaffirms Indiaโs growing dominance in world hockey.
