NAGPUR: It took 23 long years for any sportsperson from Nagpur to receive the prestigious Arjuna award. India's golden archer, Ojas Pravin Deotale, ended the drought when President Droupadi Murmu presented him with the rare honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi on Tuesday.
Arjuna award is India's second-highest athletic honour and is given to a sportsperson for good performance over four years, besides showing qualities of leadership, sportsmanship, and a sense of discipline. In a span of just six months, after becoming the world champion, Ojas garnered the requisite points required for receiving the award.
Speaking to TOI, the 21-year-old was at a loss for words. "I feel like living a dream. I have no words to express my happiness. These 6-7 months have changed my life. I have never thought of receiving the Arjuna award. My coach said most people never win this award. So, the feeling is really special."
Ojas' parents, Pravin & Archana Deotale, elder brother Jatin, were with him in New Delhi.
"Ojas has changed our life," said Pravin.
