The pink city came alive with cheers, pride, and emotion as the Disabled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) rolled out the red carpet for its first-ever “Divyam Awards.” For India’s differently-abled cricketers, it was more than just a ceremony—it was history in the making.

The brainchild of Ravikant Chauhan, General Secretary of DCCI, the event was nothing short of spectacular. Much like the BCCI’s prestigious “Naman Awards,” the Divyam Awards were designed to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of disabled cricket—players, coaches, administrators, and supporters whose dedication has built the sport brick by brick. For many, it felt like the recognition they had been waiting for all their lives.

And what a night it was. Ravindra Patil of Mumbai was moved to tears as he accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award, a moment that drew a standing ovation from the audience. From Vidarbha, Gurudas Raut took home the Special Contribution Award, while the Jaipuria Cricket Academy, led by Rohit Jhalani, Head Coach of the Indian Disabled Cricket Team, was recognized with the Leadership and Inspiration Award. Youngsters, rising stars, and even administrators had their share of the limelight—proof that every contribution, big or small, matters.

The grandeur of the evening was matched by the presence of distinguished guests. Neeraj K. Pawan, Chairman of the Rajasthan State Sports Council, presided as the chief guest, alongside RCA Ad-hoc Committee Convenor D.D. Kumawat. Their announcement that Jaipur will host the upcoming India-England Physically Disabled Cricket Series electrified the crowd and underscored the growing stature of disabled cricket in India.

For Ravikant Chauhan, the evening was deeply personal. Standing on stage, he spoke passionately about building a stronger future for disabled cricket. “We are working on a robust and systematic structure for the game, and very soon, salaries will be introduced for players. It’s time disabled cricket gets the recognition and respect it deserves,” he said, his words drawing thunderous applause.

The awards also turned into a reunion of sorts, with representatives from across India—Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and beyond—coming together to celebrate their shared passion. For many players, it was the first time their achievements had been recognized on such a grand scale.

The Divyam Awards 2025 were more than an award function; they were a celebration of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of sport. As the evening drew to a close, one thing was clear—disabled cricket is no longer in the shadows. With institutional backing, financial support, and national recognition, it is stepping boldly into the mainstream of Indian cricket.

And for the players who dream not just of playing, but of being celebrated, the Divyam Awards felt like a promise kept.