Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has expressed deep appreciation to the Government of India after being honored with the Padma Shri award. He described this recognition as a "significant moment" for both himself and his family.
In a video posted by Doordarshan Sports on X, Sharma conveyed his gratitude to everyone who has supported his journey. He stated, "Namaskar! Receiving the Padma Shri award fills me with immense pride. I sincerely thank the Indian government for this honor. This moment is crucial for my family and me. I also extend my thanks to all those who have contributed to my career. I will strive to continue bringing home trophies and victories for India. Thank you! Jai Hind!"
Rohit Sharma, alongside Indian women's cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur, is among the athletes recognized with the Padma Shri this year. Other distinguished recipients in the sports category include para high jumper Praveen Kumar and hockey player Savita Punia. Additionally, tennis icon Vijay Amritraj is set to receive the Padma Bhushan following the announcement of the 2026 awardees on the eve of the 77th Republic Day.
Under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, the Indian men's cricket team secured the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 title in Barbados and the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai. Meanwhile, Harmanpreet Kaur's women's team made history by winning their first-ever ICC women's title in 2025, clinching the ODI World Cup on home soil.
For the year 2026, the President has sanctioned a total of 131 Padma Awards, which includes two duo cases (counted as one award). The distribution consists of five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri Awards. Among the awardees, 19 are women, and the list features six individuals from the categories of Foreign Nationals, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), along with 16 posthumous awards.
These prestigious awards are presented by the President of India during ceremonial events at Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically held in March and April each year.
The Padma Awards rank among the highest civilian honors in India, categorized into three levels: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for notable service in any field.
These awards encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.
The full list of Padma Awards 2026 for sports personalities includes: Padma Bhushan - Vijay Amritraj; Padma Shri - Baldev Singh, Bhagwandas Raikwar, K Pajanivel, Praveen Kumar, Rohit Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Savita Punia, Vladimer Mestvirishvili.
