April 11, 2017: SSP Chawrasia is always a happy camper. But his smile and the trademark glint in the eye acquire an additional glow when he is in Kolkata. The city is home to the two time Indian Open champion. The Calcutta Sports Journalists Club hosted a special night of celebration for sport on Tuesday. Chawrasia was given the Sportsperson of the Year award, while Paralympic champion Deepa Malik was recognized with the Inspiration of the Year award.
The ICCR auditorium rang out an especially loud applause for the endearing golfer, as he received the award with a disarming smile.
“Without journalists nobody will know sportspersons. I hope this award becomes a lucky charm as I get ready for tournaments in Japan, China and England,” said Chawrasia.
Silver medalist Deepa, was forced to skip the event due to other personal engagements, but shared her acknowledgement through a video message.
“This means a lot to me. It is good that performances of athletes in Paralympics is being covered,” Deepa said in the recorded message.
India and Kings XI Punjab wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, was conferred a special award. Since Saha is busy with his IPL duties, Debarati, his wife was in attendance to receive the honour.
Best Sportsperson of the Country: SSP Chawrasia.
Best Junior Sportsperson of the Country: Saurav Singh.
Inspiration of the Year: Deepa Malik
Special awards: Mridul Banerjee, Anindita Chakraborty, Pranab Nandy, Manvir Singh, Rana Gharami.
Lifetime achievement awards: Raju Mukherji, Dibyendu Barua, Shyam Thapa.
Best Footballer (joint): Mohammed Rafique and Jeje Lalpekhlua
Best cricketer: Abhimanyu Easwaran.
Best Table Tennis player: Moumita Dutta
Best Archer: Atanu Das.
Best hockey player: Sathi Dolui
Best athlete (men): Chandan Bauri
Best athlete (women): Rajashree Prasad
Best badminton player: Utsava Palit
Best basketball player: Sitamoni Tudu
Best volleyball player: Tithi Dhara
Best chess player: Arpita Mukherjee
Aquatic sports (diving): Moupriya Mitra
