On the eve of India’s 77th Republic Day, the government announced a prestigious Padma Shri award for Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the Indian women’s cricket team. Her father, Harminder Singh Bhullar from Moga, couldn’t contain his joy. Speaking exclusively to IANS, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the authorities and shared a powerful message for parents everywhere.
“I’m over the moon that the government has selected my daughter for the Padma Shri,” Harminder said. “I urge all countrymen: give your children a fair shot, whether in sports or studies. With opportunity, they will make you proud and light up your name.”
Under Harmanpreet’s leadership, the Indian women’s team clinched the ODI World Cup 2025 title—their first-ever ICC trophy. Her inspiring captaincy and batting heroics in the tournament earned her this honor. Already an Arjuna Awardee from 2017, the 36-year-old all-rounder has a glittering career: 4,409 runs in 161 ODIs with 7 centuries and 22 fifties, 3,784 runs in 187 T20Is including a ton and 15 half-centuries, plus wickets across formats.
Reflecting on her journey post-World Cup win, Harmanpreet revealed childhood dreams of playing for India and lifting the trophy. “Hearts broke many times, but persistence paid off,” she said. She credited her family, especially her father, for backing her cricketing ambitions.
Harminder’s words resonate as a call to nurture young talent. In a nation crazy about cricket, stories like Harmanpreet’s show how support can turn dreams into national glory. As celebrations gear up for Republic Day, her Padma Shri nomination stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes and proud parents alike.