2018 Rajiv Gandhi Award?
VerifiedAnswer: Virat Kohli and Meerabai Chanu
Explanation:
The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award is India's highest sporting honor, awarded annually to recognize outstanding achievements in sports and games. In 2018, this prestigious award was jointly presented to two exceptional athletes who brought immense pride to the nation through their remarkable performances.
Virat Kohli, the cricket sensation and former captain of the Indian cricket team, was one of the recipients. His exceptional leadership and batting prowess had already established him as one of the world's finest cricketers. During this period, Kohli consistently dominated international cricket rankings and led India to numerous victories across all formats of the game. His aggressive playing style and dedication to fitness revolutionized Indian cricket and inspired millions of young cricketers across the country.
The second recipient was Mirabai Chanu, the weightlifting champion from Manipur who made headlines with her outstanding performances in international competitions. Her journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming a world-class athlete is truly inspiring. Chanu's dedication to weightlifting and her ability to compete at the highest level brought significant recognition to Indian weightlifting on the global stage.
Both athletes represented different sports disciplines, showcasing the diversity and talent present in Indian sports. Their achievements in 2018 were particularly noteworthy as they demonstrated consistent excellence and brought international recognition to India. The award ceremony celebrated not just their individual accomplishments but also their contribution to inspiring the next generation of Indian athletes.
This joint recognition highlighted the government's commitment to acknowledging excellence across various sporting disciplines, from mainstream cricket to Olympic sports like weightlifting. Both Kohli and Chanu continue to be role models for aspiring athletes, proving that with determination, hard work, and proper support, Indian athletes can compete and excel at the highest international levels.
