India women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Monday said receiving the Padma Shri was a moment of immense pride and gratitude, while dedicating the honour to everyone who supported her journey from a young dreamer to an international cricketer.
Harmanpreet was conferred the country’s fourth-highest civilian award by President Droupadi Murmu during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Former India captain Rohit Sharma was the other cricketer to receive the honour this year.
Sharing an emotional note on Instagram after the ceremony, Harmanpreet thanked her parents, family, coaches, teammates, friends and fans for standing by her throughout her career.
“Today, my heart is filled with gratitude and pride as I receive the prestigious Padma Shri honour. This recognition is not just mine,” she wrote.
“From a young girl with dreams in her eyes to representing India on the biggest stages, every moment has been possible because of your love, sacrifices and encouragement.
The 37-year-old also thanked the Government of India, the Sports Authority of India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India for their continued support towards women’s cricket.
Harmanpreet’s honour comes months after she led India to their maiden Women’s ODI World Cup triumph in 2025, when the hosts defeated South Africa in the final.
“Wearing the India jersey will always remain the greatest honour of my life,” Harmanpreet added.
-IANS
