The Major Dhyan Khel Ratna award is the highest award for sports in India. It is presented each year by the Government of India to players who excel in international competition for a minimum period of four years. The award was originally known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, but in 2021, the award was named after Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian legendary hockey player.
Khel Ratna Award 2023 Winners: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
In 2023, the prestigious award was presented the prestigious award to Satwiksairaj the Rankireddy brothers and Chirag Shetty. They are India’s most famous badminton doubles team. They were the first Indian male doubles pair to achieve such heights and have won numerous international tournaments for the nation.
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy – The Power Player
Satwiksairaj the Rankireddy family was established 13 August in Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh. He began playing badminton at the age of just five and was recognized for his slams that he hurled and a strong backcourt game. Satwik plays in the Pullela Gopichand Academy and quickly made his way through the ranks of the national team. His team with Chirag Shetty gave India the first major men’s doubles victory on the international scene. Satwik’s ferocity, strength and determination make him a major participant for India. He has been awarded medals at his participation in the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games as well as BWF tournaments. He is now a role model for younger Indian badminton athletes.
Chirag Shetty – The Smart Strategist
Chirag Shetty was born July 4th, 1997, in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Chirag began playing badminton during his time at school and was concentrating on doubles as early as he could. Chirag is famous for his precise net play rapid reflexes and clever strategies. Together with Satwik Chirag, they created a formidable team which made history in Indian badminton. Chirag also works with his school, the Gopichand Academy and has played an integral part in the success of India in international tournaments. Chirag’s calm manner and technical expertise have earned his praise from both the public and experts alike. Chirag’s story shows that with determination and determination it is possible to achieve anything.
Why They Deserve the Award
Satwik as well as Chirag have made their country proud with their achievements. Some of their accomplishments are:
- Achieving a gold medal in the Asian Games 2023
- The first Indian team to take home the Super 1000 badminton title
- Making it to the top 5 in the world rankings for doubles for men
They work well together and teamwork. Satwik is famous for his powerful smashes, and Chirag for his smart net game. Their teamwork in the courts has helped them become one of the best teams around the globe.
What Do They Get?
As Khel Ratna recipients, Satwik and Chirag will be awarded:
- A medal
- A certificate
- A cash prize of Rs 25 lakh
The award is not handed out only for performance in a particular competition. The government evaluates the performance of athletes during major tournaments like the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships over a period of four years.
About the Award
- was introduced in 1991-92
- The first winner was Chess Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand
- Renamed in 2021: From Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna to Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
- This award is presented for players that have demonstrated an outstanding and consistent performance.
The award given the duo of Satwik Chirag and Satwik Chirag is a major event in the history of Indian badminton. In the past, singles players like PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal are the most popular however, this award shows how doubles players are being recognized now. This will encourage young players to take badminton with a serious attitude.
Satwik Chirag’s story proves that with perseverance, commitment and teamwork, any desire can become a reality. Their achievements are not only theirs, but an inspiring moment for everyone in India.
