The Hockey India 7th Annual Awards 2024 marked a grand celebration of the country’s finest hockey players, recognizing their contributions and achievements in the past year.
The prestigious awards, held in a gala event, honored legends and emerging talents alike, reinforcing India’s strong presence in the global hockey landscape.
From seasoned stalwarts like Harmanpreet Singh and Savita Punia to young stars such as Araijeet Singh Hundal and Deepika, the event showcased the depth of talent India possesses across generations. Additionally, the recognition of the 1975 World Cup-winning team with the Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award was a poignant moment that highlighted India’s rich hockey legacy.
Top Honors: Players of the Year
🏆 Hockey India Balbir Singh Award for Men’s Player of the Year 2024: Harmanpreet Singh
The Indian captain and ace drag-flicker, Harmanpreet Singh, clinched the Men’s Player of the Year award, solidifying his reputation as one of the best defenders in world hockey. Known for his clinical penalty corner conversions and leadership skills, Harmanpreet played a pivotal role in India’s performances throughout 2024. His consistency, defensive solidity, and attacking prowess make him a crucial figure in India’s Olympic aspirations.
🏆 Hockey India Balbir Singh Award for Women’s Player of the Year 2024: Savita Punia
The “Great Wall of Indian Hockey”, Savita Punia, won the Women’s Player of the Year award for her outstanding performances between the posts. Her reflexes, composure under pressure, and leadership qualities were instrumental in guiding the Indian women’s team through major international tournaments. Savita has been a pillar of strength for Indian hockey, and her recognition at the awards highlights her continued impact.
Position-Based Excellence Awards
🏆 Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year 2024: Abhishek Nain
The award named after the legendary Dhanraj Pillay was won by Abhishek Nain, an emerging star in Indian hockey. With his blistering pace, precise finishing, and relentless attacking mindset, Abhishek has proven to be a valuable asset to India’s forward line.
🏆 Hockey India Ajit Pal Singh Award for Midfielder of the Year 2024: Hardik
Dynamic and versatile, Hardik was awarded the Midfielder of the Year award, a testament to his all-around contributions in attack and defense. His ability to control the tempo, distribute play efficiently, and step up in crucial moments makes him a midfield maestro.
🏆 Hockey India Pargat Singh Award for Midfielder of the Year 2024: Amit Rohidas
An experienced and battle-hardened player, Amit Rohidas secured the Pargat Singh Award for Midfielder of the Year. Known for his defensive solidity, intercepting abilities, and penalty corner expertise, Amit played a crucial role in India’s campaigns throughout 2024.
Rising Stars: The Future of Indian Hockey
🏆 Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for Upcoming Men’s U21 Player of the Year 2024: Araijeet Singh Hundal
Young sensation Araijeet Singh Hundal took home the Upcoming Men’s U21 Player of the Year award. A highly talented forward, Hundal has been making waves in junior-level competitions and is seen as a future star for India.
🏆 Hockey India Asunta Lakra Award for Upcoming Women’s U21 Player of the Year 2024: Deepika
On the women’s side, Deepika won the Asunta Lakra Award for her remarkable performances at the junior level. With her skill set and temperament, she is expected to be a key figure in India’s senior team in the coming years.
Honoring the Legends: 1975 World Cup-Winning Team
🏆 Hockey India Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award 2024: Indian Men’s 1975 World Cup Winning Team
One of the most emotional moments of the night was the Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award, which was conferred upon the historic 1975 World Cup-winning team. This was the only occasion when India lifted the Men’s Hockey World Cup, under the captaincy of Ajit Pal Singh. Their triumph remains one of the most cherished moments in Indian hockey history, and the award was a fitting tribute to their enduring legacy.
A Celebration of Indian Hockey
The Hockey India Annual Awards continue to serve as a platform to recognize and inspire hockey players across the country. The 2024 edition not only honored India’s finest but also sent a strong message about the future of the sport in the country.
With the Paris Olympics 2024 on the horizon and a new generation of players stepping up, Indian hockey is in an exciting phase. The blend of experience and youthful exuberance ensures that India remains a formidable force in world hockey.
As the nation celebrates its hockey heroes, one thing is clear: Indian hockey is not just about its glorious past but also about a promising future.
