[WATCH] ‘I am grateful’ – Rohit Sharma extends his gratitude after Padma Shri honour

Indian batting great Rohit Sharma has opened up about how much it means to be conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honours. He became the 42nd Indian cricketer to get the award in history. 

The former India captain described the accolade as a truly emotional milestone for himself and his family, and reaffirmed his commitment to cricket even after retiring from two formats of the game. In a video message shared on social media, Rohit thanked everyone who has supported him over his long and illustrious career.

“Receiving the Padma Shri is a very special moment for me and my family,” he said, acknowledging the deep personal significance of the recognition. Rohit didn’t just stop at gratitude, he stressed that his competitive spirit remains undiminished despite the award.

“I thank the Government of India for this honour. I am also grateful to all those people who have played an important role in my career. My effort to win matches and trophies for my country will always continue. Thank you. Jai Hind,” he added, making it clear that his focus on contributing to India’s cricketing success remains strong.

Watch the clip here-

Rohit, who debuted for India in 2007, has been an influential figure in Indian cricket for nearly two decades. His impact with the bat and leadership on the field has been substantial, with India winning the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025 under his captaincy.

Though he has retired from T20ls and Test cricket, Rohit continues to play in ODIs and eyes future success, including a spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup squad. The Padma Shri recognition not only celebrates his contributions on the field but also highlights his role as one of Indian cricket’s most influential figures.

Meanwhile, ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 winning captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, too, received the civilian award along with the former India captain. She has been a stalwart in Indian women’s cricket, and this award is testament to her epic career. Reacting to the recognition, the Mumbai Indians women captain shared her thoughts.

“My dad got a call from President House. This year I’m going to get the Padma Shri Award. I think it’s a very big moment for me. And I’m happy that, you know, before me my parents got to know,” Harmanpreet said in a Mumbai Indians video.

A total of 113 people, across various fields were honoured with the fourth-highest civilian award this year, with Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj receiving Padma Bhushan.