The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, formerly known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, is the highest sporting honor in India, awarded to sportspersons for their exceptional performance on the international stage. Over the years, India’s female athletes have etched their names into this prestigious list, showcasing their dominance and resilience across various disciplines.
These women have not only brought glory to the country with their achievements but have also inspired millions with their grit, determination, and consistent excellence.
🏅 Indian Female Khel Ratna Awardees: Complete List
| Name | Year Awarded | Sport/Discipline |
|---|---|---|
| Karnam Malleswari | 1995 | Weightlifting |
| Jyotirmoyee Sikdar | 1998–99 | Athletics |
| K. M. Beenamol | 2002 | Athletics |
| Anjali Bhagwat | 2003 | Shooting |
| Anju Bobby George | 2004 | Athletics |
| Mary Kom | 2009 | Boxing |
| Saina Nehwal | 2010 | Badminton |
| P. V. Sindhu | 2016 | Badminton |
| Dipa Karmakar | 2016 | Gymnastics |
| Sakshi Malik | 2016 | Wrestling |
| Deepa Malik | 2019 | Para-athletics |
| Rani Rampal | 2020 | Hockey |
| Vinesh Phogat | 2020 | Wrestling |
| Manika Batra | 2020 | Table Tennis |
| Mithali Raj | 2021 | Cricket |
🏆 Noteworthy Mentions
-
Karnam Malleswari was the first Indian woman to receive the Khel Ratna and also the first woman to win an Olympic medal for India (Sydney 2000 – Bronze).
-
Mary Kom, a six-time World Champion, is the most decorated Indian boxer and a beacon for women’s boxing.
-
P.V. Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals.
-
Deepa Malik is the first Indian female para-athlete to win an Olympic medal and a symbol of strength and perseverance.
-
Mithali Raj, the face of Indian women’s cricket for over two decades, is the highest run-scorer in women’s international cricket.
These athletes have broken records and rewritten history with their performances. The Khel Ratna isn’t just a medal — it’s a badge of legacy, and these women have truly earned it with their sweat, spirit, and sacrifice.
