By SRTeam The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the highest sports award in India. It is given every year by the Government of India to players who perform very well at the international level for at least four years. This award was earlier called the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, but in 2021, it was renamed to honour Major Dhyan Chand, India’s hockey legend.
Khel Ratna Award 2023 Winners: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty
In 2023, this big honour was given to Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, India’s famous badminton doubles pair. They are the first Indian men’s doubles pair to reach such heights and win many international tournaments for the country.
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy – The Power Player
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy was born on 13 August 2000 in Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh. He started playing badminton at a very young age and became known for his powerful smashes and strong backcourt game. Satwik trains at the Pullela Gopichand Academy and quickly rose through the national ranks. His partnership with Chirag Shetty brought India its first major men’s doubles victories on the world stage. Satwik’s aggressive style, fitness, and determination have made him a key player for India. He has won medals in the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and BWF tournaments, becoming a role model for young Indian badminton players.
Chirag Shetty – The Smart Strategist
Chirag Shetty was born on 4 July 1997 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He began playing badminton during his school days and focused on doubles from early on. Chirag is known for his sharp net play, quick reflexes, and smart strategies. Together with Satwik, he formed a strong duo that made history in Indian badminton. Chirag also trains at the Gopichand Academy and has played a big role in India’s success in international tournaments. His calm approach and technical skills have won him praise from experts and fans alike. Chirag’s journey proves that with focus and hard work, anything is possible.
🌟 Why They Deserve the Award
Satwik and Chirag have made the country proud with their performances. Some of their achievements are:
- Winning a gold medal at the Asian Games 2023
- Becoming the first Indian pair to win a Super 1000 badminton title
- Reaching the top 5 in the world rankings in men’s doubles
They play with great teamwork – Satwik is known for his powerful smashes and Chirag for his clever net play. Their bond on the court has made them one of the strongest teams in the world.
🎖️ What Do They Get?
As Khel Ratna awardees, Satwik and Chirag will receive:
- A medal
- A certificate
- A cash prize of ₹25 lakh
This award is not given just for playing well in one event. The government checks performances at big tournaments like Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships over four years.
🏆 About the Award
- Started in: 1991–92
- First winner: Chess Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand
- Renamed in 2021: From Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna to Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
- Given to players who have shown excellent and consistent performance
This award to Satwik and Chirag is a big moment for Indian badminton. Usually, singles players like PV Sindhu or Saina Nehwal are more popular, but this shows that doubles players are also getting recognition now. It will also inspire young players to take up badminton seriously.
Satwik and Chirag’s journey shows that with hard work, dedication, and teamwork, any dream can come true. Their success is not just theirs, but a proud moment for all of India.