Legendary Ashok Kumar Receives Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award and Rs 30 Lakh Prize Money at Hockey India Awards

New Delhi: The Hockey India Awards ceremony held in the Capital on Sunday afternoon culminated with a heartwarming moment as legendary Ashok Kumar was honored with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award. The 73-year-old, son of the hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand, was visibly emotional as he received the award named after his father.

Dressed in a black suit and polished boots, Ashok Kumar took to the stage to announce the recipient of the award but was unable to do so. It was IAS Vineel Krishna, Secretary Sports and Youth Services, Government of Odisha, who finally revealed the name – Ashok Kumar.

In an exclusive interview with India.com, Ashok expressed his gratitude for being recognized by Hockey India with an award named after his father. He reminisced about his father’s legacy and the impact he had on Indian hockey on a global scale.

Ashok Kumar, known for his exceptional skills and ball control, played a pivotal role in India’s success in international tournaments, including scoring the winning goal against Pakistan in the final of the 1975 World Cup in Kuala Lumpur.

Reflecting on India’s prospects at the upcoming Paris Olympics, Ashok Kumar expressed confidence in the team’s abilities but emphasized the need for an ‘extra push’ from the players themselves to secure a podium finish.

With a career marked by numerous accolades, including Olympic appearances and Asian Games medals, Ashok Kumar’s contribution to Indian hockey is truly commendable. The Lifetime Achievement Award, along with a prize money of Rs 30 lakh, serves as a fitting tribute to his remarkable journey in the sport.