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ShareNew Delhi: It is one venue every Indian sportsperson wants to appear at. The majestic Ashok Hall with its Persian paintings on the ceiling and imposing chandeliers is synonymous with the national sports and adventure awards presented by the President of India.
The similarity, diversity and contrasts are a sports romantic's delight -- Vijender Singh and Sushil Kumar in animated conversation; MC Mary Kom in small talk with Tania Sachdev; Ignace Tirkey and Gautam Gambhir sharing a thought...
Pullela Gopichand, who had received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards in the past, on Saturday got the Dronacharya award for his stint with Saina Nehwal, making it an unprecedented three occasions at the award function organised by sports ministry.
"I just can't explain the feeling.My previous awards were important but this one is different because I am being felicitated as a coach, not a player," said the former player who has also won the Padma Shri. If Gopichand was sedate, protege Saina was thrilled to bits for getting the Arjuna award. "I have seen others receive it. I was always waiting for this day," said Saina.
1960s shuttler Dinesh Khanna, was a proud man among the invitees, a good 44 years after he had won the Arjuna award. He felt that Gopichand has a long way to go as coach while Saina is maturing well. Though Gambhir was the most sought-after when it came to
autographs, the day belonged to shuttlers and boxers. That two of the three Khel Ratna awardees were boxers, gives Indian sport hope beyond cricket.
