List of Indian Cricketers Who Won Padma Bhushan Award

By: Cricbites | September 15, 2025

Indian cricket has been shaped by many legendary players and administrators who excelled on the field and left a lasting legacy on it. From pioneers like C.K. Nayudu to modern greats like M.S. Dhoni, many have been recognised for their invaluable contributions. The honouring of these players reflects the rich journey of Indian cricket.

No.	Cricketer	Year
1	C.K. Nayudu	1956
2	Maharajkumar of Vizianagram	1958
3	Vinoo Mankad	1973
4	Sunil Gavaskar	1980
5	Lala Amarnath	1991
6	D.B. Deodhar	1991
7	Kapil Dev	1991
8	Chandu Borde	2002
9	Rahul Dravid	2013
10	M.S. Dhoni	2018

1. C.K. Nayudu – 1956

When Indian cricket was still a new voice on the global stage, Kottari Kanakaiah Nayudu, fondly known as C.K. Nayudu, stood as a symbol of courage. He was India’s first Test captain against England at Lord’s in 1932.

Nayudu was an extraordinary cricketer. He faced some of the most lethal bowlers in the world with an aggressive style that amazed the spectators. His ability to string together innings gave hope to millions of fans in newly independent India. He was awarded the Arjuna Award in 1956, and told the world, “India can also play cricket.”

2. Maharaja of Vizianagaram – 1958

The Maharaja of Vizianagaram, also known as Vizhi, is often remembered for his passion rather than his records. His playing career may not be known to many, but he played a vital role. He led India in many Tests, and invested his resources in taking cricket to big cities.

When Vizhi received the Arjuna Award in 1958, it was an acknowledgement that cricket had been developed by visionaries who nurtured the game. His identity was a path for quiet promoters who brought cricket to the hearts of the common man.

3. Vinu Mankad – 1973

In the history of Indian cricket, Vinu Mankad has emerged as one of the greatest all-rounders the country has ever produced. His name became famous after his performance in the Lord’s Test against England in 1952. He scored 184 runs and took 8 wickets in a single match.

Mankad was also unique in that he often opened both the batting and bowling for India. His skills proved that Indian players could compete with and beat the best players in the world. Awarded the Arjuna Award in 1973, his legacy reflects his sharp cricketing mind and commitment to the rules of the game.

4. Sunil Gavaskar – 1980

Before Sachin Tendulkar, there was Sunil Gavaskar. He was the “Little Master” who faced the most fast bowlers in cricket history. Gavaskar not only survived them, he scored century after century with unparalleled technique.

By the time he received the Arjuna Award in 1980, Gavaskar had established himself as one of the world’s greatest opening batsmen. He became the first player to cross 10,000 Test runs, giving Indian cricket a global reputation for producing skilled batsmen. For fans of that era, Gavaskar was a hero who believed that India had its place on the world stage.

5. Lala Amarnath – 1991

Lala Amarnath’s story is one of courage, flamboyance and pioneering pride. He was the first Indian to score a Test century in 1933.

Amarnath was known for his aggressive play and personality that often clashed with cricket officials. Yet, far from being controversial, he played a significant role in shaping the identity of Indian cricket in its early years. Awarded the Arjuna Award in 1991, Amarnath was praised for giving India its first taste of international glory.

Continue Reading: List of Indian Cricketers Who Won Padma Shri Award (2025)

6. D.B. Deodhar – 1991

Known as the “Grand Old Man of Indian Cricket”, Dinkar Balwant Deodhar was one of the early visionaries of the game in India. The famous Deodhar Trophy, a premier inter-zonal tournament, is named in his honour.

When he received the Arjuna Award in 1991, it was a symbol of recognition not only for the players but also for those who laid the foundation of the game. Deodhar was a man who ensured that Indian cricket was also about the power of the indigenous players waiting in the wings.

7. Kapil Dev – 1991

No conversation about Indian cricket is complete without Kapil Dev. A man who bowled fast, batted fearlessly, and most importantly, led India to its first World Cup win in 1983. That performance at Lord’s is one of the greatest moments in Indian sporting history.

Kapil Dev’s energy on the field was infectious. His running catch to dismiss Viv Richards in the 1983 final is forever etched in cricketing folklore. Awarded the Arjuna Award in 1991, Kapil was an all-rounder. He was the man who made India dream big, transforming the country into a cricket-loving nation.

8. Chandu Borde – 2002

In the 1950s and 60s, Chandu Borde was one of India’s most reliable middle-order batsmen. Known for his calm demeanor and ability to stabilize the innings, Borde was a quiet fighter in a team that often faced strong opposition. His leg-spin bowling added to his value, making him a reliable all-rounder.

But his contributions on the field did not end there. After retirement, Borde also served as a selector, administrator and team manager in Indian cricket. The Arjuna Award he received in 2002 recognised both his playing career and his lifelong commitment to the game.

9. Rahul Dravid – 2013

Nicknamed “The Wall”, Rahul Dravid embodied patience, technique, and class. In an era of aggression and big hitting, Dravid showed that elegance and discipline were equally powerful. With more than 13,000 Test runs, he was the backbone of Indian batting, especially overseas.

Dravid kept wickets when India needed balance in ODIs. He even opened the batting when required, and mentored younger players. After retirement, he took charge of India’s junior cricket, guiding the U-19 team to World Cup glory in 2018. His Arjuna Award in 2013 was a tribute not only to his batting but also to his humility and service to the game.

10. MS Dhoni – 2018

The story of Mahendra Singh Dhoni is nothing short of a legend. A young boy from Ranchi who became India’s most successful captain. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Dhoni redefined Indian cricket with his sharp mind and calm demeanor.

Under his leadership, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. His Arjuna Award in 2018 was not just for his trophies; it was for how he carried himself as a leader on the ground despite his superstardom. For millions, Dhoni was not just “Captain Cool” but also the face of the rise of modern Indian cricket.

Conclusion

The journey of Indian cricket is a tapestry woven with stories of bravery, vision and determination. From the days of C.K. Nayudu to the modern era of MS Dhoni, these Arjuna Award winners have shaped the spirit of the game. Each awardee represents an era and its struggles. Be it the courage of the 70s and 80s or the global triumphs of the 90s. Together, they remind us that cricket is a legacy in India, passed down from generation to generation.