In a distinguished ceremony, President Draupadi Murmu conferred the Arjuna Award upon 26 athletes, including veteran Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami. Recognized for his outstanding performance in the ODI World Cup 2023, Shami expressed gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), teammates, family, and fans on social media.
Mohammed Shami, India's standout bowler in the ODI World Cup 2023, was personally honored by President Murmu with the Arjuna Award. Despite recovering from an ankle injury, Shami attended the ceremony, where he took the opportunity to thank those who supported him through highs and lows.
Taking to social media, Shami expressed pride in receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award and extended thanks to his coach, BCCI, teammates, family, staff, and fans. He reiterated his commitment to making his country proud and congratulated fellow Arjuna awardees.
Shami, currently recovering from an ankle injury, emphasized his commitment to fitness, especially with significant tournaments ahead. The cricketer, who took 24 wickets in seven World Cup games last year, looks forward to contributing to the team's success.
Renowned chess player R. Vaishali, the elder sister of chess prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa, received applause for becoming the third woman in India, after Koneru Humpy and Dronavalli Harika, to achieve the title of Grandmaster.
Pistol shooting sensation Esha Singh, aged 19, was absent from the ceremony as she competes in the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Jakarta.
Among the notable Dronacharya awardees is chess coach RB Ramesh, acknowledged for grooming talent like Praggnanandhaa.
While the Khel Ratna comes with a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh, the Arjuna and Dronacharya awards include a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh. The ceremony celebrated excellence across various sporting disciplines, acknowledging the dedication and achievements of the awardees.