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Nasreen Shaikh wins BBC Sportswoman Award as kho kho’s star rises
MUMBAI: In a game of inches and intense competition, Nasreen Shaikh has secured the ultimate victory not just on the field, but off it as well. The former captain of the Indian women’s kho-kho team and Arjuna Awardee has clinched the coveted BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year – Changemaker Award. The award, which took centre stage at the Taj Palace, New Delhi on 17 February 2025, recognises her monumental role in elevating kho kho both nationally and internationally.
This recognition follows the resounding success of the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, held in Delhi, where India dominated by winning both the men’s and women’s World Cups. Shaikh’s rise mirrors the sport’s own trajectory, transforming kho kho from a regional pastime to a global contender.
Shaikh’s reaction? “Kho Kho is more than a sport; it’s a passion that has shaped my life,” she said, reflecting on the award. “This honour acknowledges not just my journey but the efforts of every athlete striving to make a mark in Indian sports. I am grateful for this recognition and eager to take Kho Kho to even bigger stages.”
International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) and the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) president Sudhanshu Mittal presented the award, praising Shaikh’s contributions. He remarked, “Her dedication has not only brought glory to Indian sports but has also brought Kho Kho into the spotlight. Nasreen is an inspiration, and we are confident she will continue to lead the sport to new heights.”
This prestigious recognition places kho kho in the spotlight, revealing its growing global appeal and the potential it holds as an exciting, high-intensity sport. As Shaikh continues to make waves, it’s clear that kho kho’s future is looking more competitive and commercially viable than ever.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
