Renowned para-badminton coach Shri Gaurav Khanna has been conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Sports, particularly in developing India’s para-badminton ecosystem.
A native of Lucknow, Gaurav Khanna’s journey is a testament to perseverance and vision. After an injury ended his playing career, he dedicated his life to coaching and nurturing para-athletes. Today, he is credited with putting India on the global map in para-badminton through his pioneering coaching methods and inclusive approach.
He is the founder of India’s first para-badminton academy—the Gaurav Khanna Excellia Badminton Academy in Lucknow—where he has trained some of the country’s top para-badminton athletes, including Paralympic gold medalist Pramod Bhagat, Suhas Yathiraj, Manoj Sarkar, and Palak Kohli.
Under his mentorship, Indian para-badminton players have won over 900 international medals, including at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, World Championships, and Asian Para Games. For his coaching excellence, Khanna received the prestigious Dronacharya Award in 2020—becoming the first coach from para-sports to receive the honour.
Beyond medals, his academy offers world-class training, rehabilitation, and support for para-athletes, ensuring holistic development. He has also played a crucial role in scouting talent from rural and underprivileged backgrounds, giving new hope to hundreds of aspiring players with disabilities.
Speaking after the announcement of the award, Shri Khanna said:
“This Padma Shri is not just my achievement—it belongs to every para-athlete who has fought challenges and risen to represent India with pride. I am humbled and inspired to continue this journey.”
