Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 28: In a historic moment for Indian hockey, PR Sreejesh — the legendary former goalkeeper of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and current coach of the Indian Junior Men’s Team — has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.
Hockey India celebrated the announcement on Monday, proudly hailing Sreejesh’s exceptional contributions to the sport.
With this accolade, Sreejesh becomes only the second hockey player after the iconic Major Dhyan Chand — honoured in 1956 — to receive the Padma Bhushan, placing him firmly among the giants of Indian sports history.
Widely regarded as the "God of Modern Indian Hockey," Sreejesh had an illustrious 18-year international career, amassing 336 appearances for India. His career reached a fitting high as he helped the national team secure a Bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, following the historic podium finish at Tokyo 2020. Known for his calmness under pressure and clutch performances, Sreejesh was the backbone of India's defence for more than a decade.
Among his many accolades are three FIH Goalkeeper of the Year awards (2021, 2022, 2024), the Arjuna Award (2015), the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2021), and the prestigious World Games Athlete of the Year title (2021).
Since his senior international debut in 2010, Sreejesh’s resilience and brilliance defined a golden era for Indian hockey. After hanging up his boots post-Paris 2024, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leading the Indian junior team to a triumphant Junior Asia Cup title in November 2024.
His glittering résumé includes appearances at four Olympics (London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024), two Asian Games Gold medals (2014, 2022), an Asian Games Bronze medal (2018), and two Commonwealth Games Silver medals (2014, 2022). He also played key roles in India's victories at the Asian Champions Trophy in 2011, 2016, 2018, and 2023.
Reacting to the honour, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, "PR Sreejesh's journey in Indian hockey, both as an outstanding player and now as an inspiring coach, is truly remarkable. This Padma Bhushan is a well-deserved recognition of a career that continues to inspire generations."
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh echoed the sentiment, saying, "Sreejesh has been at the heart of Indian hockey’s resurgence on the global stage. His dedication and leadership have set new benchmarks, and we are proud to witness him shaping the next chapter of Indian hockey through his coaching."