But here’s the real story: He wasn’t even the favorite. His win broke a 120-year drought for Indian decathletes. That’s not just a medal; it’s a revolution. And he’s not alone. From chess prodigies to para-athletes rewriting world records, this year’s National Sports Awards list isn’t just about trophies. It’s about quiet warriors who trained without hype, won without headlines, and still carried India’s flag higher than ever. Ever heard of Dhanush Srikanth? He’s deaf; and he just set a world record in shooting. Or Divya Deshmukh? She became India’s youngest woman Grandmaster at 17. This isn’t a list. It’s a manifesto for what’s possible when talent meets grit. And honestly? It’s just getting started.