Hockey India extended its heartfelt congratulations to former Indian Men’s Hockey Team goalkeeper PR Sreejesh on Sunday for being awarded the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.
Sreejesh, often called the ‘God of Modern Indian Hockey,’ is currently the coach of the Indian Men’s Junior Hockey Team. He is only the second hockey player to receive the Padma Bhushan, following the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, who was honoured in 1956.
Sreejesh had an illustrious 18-year career, representing India in 336 international matches before retiring after the Paris Olympics in 2024. His outstanding performance in his final Olympics helped India secure a bronze medal, adding to the historic bronze won in Tokyo 2020.
Throughout his career, Sreejesh earned numerous accolades, including being named FIH Goalkeeper of the Year in 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 debut in 2010, he played a crucial role in India’s resurgence in global hockey, offering leadership and composure during key moments. Recently, as a coach, he led the Indian colts to victory at the Junior Asia Cup in November 2024.
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Hockey India President Dr Dilip Tirkey expressed his joy, saying, “It is a moment of immense pride for the entire hockey community that PR Sreejesh has been recognised with the Padma Bhushan. His contributions to Indian hockey have been monumental, both as a player and now as a mentor. His achievements have inspired countless young players, and we are thrilled to see him receive this well-deserved honour.”
Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “PR Sreejesh’s journey is one of dedication, perseverance, and excellence. Being only the second hockey player after Major Dhyan Chand to receive the Padma Bhushan highlights his extraordinary career and lasting impact on Indian hockey.”
Upon receiving the honour, Sreejesh said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Padma Bhushan, and I thank the Government of India for this recognition. Hockey has been my life for nearly two decades, and every time I stepped onto the field, it was to give my best for the country. This award is a tribute to all the players, coaches, and support staff who have been part of my journey. I am humbled to follow in the footsteps of Major Dhyan Chand, who remains an eternal source of inspiration for us all.”
Sreejesh’s career includes participation in four Olympic Games—London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024. He also won two Asian Games gold medals (2014 and 2022), an Asian Games bronze (2018), two Commonwealth Games silver medals (2014 and 2022), and played a key role in India winning the Asian Champions Trophy four times (2011, 2016, 2018, and 2023). Known as the ‘Great Wall of Indian Hockey,’ his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
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