Former Indian cricket team captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the prestigious Padma Bhushan Award, which is the third highest civilian award in our country. It was given to him by the President, Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.

Dhoni came to the ceremony dressed in his Lieutenant Colonel uniform. Back in 2011, The Indian Territorial Army had conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel to him, which if you’re wondering, explains why he was dressed that way. What stood out more, was his powerful walk when his name was called out. It was exactly like an individual who serves in the army would walk while receiving an honour. He exuded strength, confidence and a sense of pride while he was bestowed with this honour.

What makes this occasion even more special is the fact that he received this prestigious award exactly 7 years after India won the ICC Cricket World Cup on home turf. After 28 years, they finally brought the title back home on April 2, 2011. Talk about a coincidence.

Among the several awards Dhoni has won over the years, he is only the second ever cricketer to win the prestigious Padma Bhushan Award. The other being the legendary, Kapil Dev who also captained Team India during their World Cup Victory in 1983. The award is given for distinguished service of a high order without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex.

We wish this legendary cricketer hearty congratulations!

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