PR Sreejesh Receives Prestigious Padma Bhushan from President Droupadi Murmu – A Moment of Glory for Indian Hockey!

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Hockey India today beamed with pride as it extended its warmest congratulations to the legendary PR Sreejesh, after he was conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan Award by the Hon'ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

It was a moment of immense joy for Indian hockey as one of its greatest stalwarts received India's third-highest civilian honour.

Taking to social media, Hockey India expressed its heartfelt sentiments: "Congratulations to our Wall, P.R. Sreejesh, on being conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan by Hon'ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu. A true legend, an inspiration for generations!"

This honour cements Sreejesh's name among the very elite, placing him alongside the iconic Major Dhyan Chand, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1956. Nearly seventy years later, Sreejesh becomes only the second hockey player in Indian history to receive this accolade - a testament to his towering contribution to the sport.

Widely celebrated as the "God of Modern Indian Hockey," PR Sreejesh's illustrious 18-year international career stands as a towering chapter in the annals of Indian sport. Making his senior debut in 2010, he went on to earn 336 caps for India, displaying extraordinary skill, grit, and resilience every time he stood between the posts. His journey culminated in a fairy-tale finish with a Bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, adding to the historic Bronze secured at Tokyo 2020.

President of India's official handle, @rashtrapatibhvn, also highlighted the magnitude of his achievement: "President Droupadi Murmu presents Padma Bhushan in the field of Sports to Shri Sreejesh P. R. He is a former Indian Hockey goalkeeper and the current Coach of the Junior Indian Hockey team. Sreejesh is widely known for the double Olympic Bronze medals and for being the only hockey goalkeeper in the world to win the prestigious FIH Goalkeeper of the Year thrice during his 22-year playing career."

At the ceremony, Sreejesh, donned in a traditional white ensemble, received the honour with a humble smile. His family, present at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, offered a standing ovation, embodying the pride of millions across the nation.

Over his career, Sreejesh collected a treasure trove of accolades. He won the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Award thrice - in 2021, 2022, and 2024 - a feat unmatched by any other hockey goalkeeper in the world. His medal cabinet also boasts two Asian Games Gold medals (2014, 2022), an Asian Games Bronze (2018), and two Commonwealth Games Silver medals (2014, 2022). Furthermore, he was instrumental in India's multiple victories at the Asian Champions Trophy (2011, 2016, 2018, and 2023).

His exceptional service to Indian sport had already been recognised with the Arjuna Award in 2015, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, and the World Games Athlete of the Year Award in 2021. But the Padma Bhushan crowns his achievements in the grandest manner, truly befitting a titan of his calibre.

Transitioning seamlessly into coaching after retirement, Sreejesh continued to serve Indian hockey with distinction. As the coach of the Indian Junior Men's Team, he led them to a memorable Junior Asia Cup title in November 2024, nurturing a fresh generation of talent with his invaluable experience and insight.

Reflecting on this crowning moment, Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey lauded the legend, stating, "PR Sreejesh's 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."

Adding to the wave of admiration, Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh remarked, "Sreejesh has been the heart of Indian hockey's 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."

The 2025 Republic Day list, where his nomination was first revealed, had already hinted at this special moment. Now, standing decorated with the Padma Bhushan, PR Sreejesh's story becomes one of perseverance, excellence, and national pride.

A journey that began on the dusty fields of Kerala has today culminated at the very zenith of national recognition. PR Sreejesh's career remains a shining beacon for young aspirants - proof that with dedication and unyielding spirit, even the grandest dreams can be realised.

In the annals of Indian sport, PR Sreejesh's name will forever be etched as the indomitable 'Wall' who defended the honour of Indian hockey and carried the dreams of a nation with unwavering pride.