In an unprecedented move, the Indian Government this year decided to give the Khel Ratna to three sportspersons, women's world boxing champion Mary Kom, Beijing bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh and Kumar.

Kumar, who has also won three Commonwealth wrestling titles, said the recognition would be a huge fillip for wrestling in India and the country can look forward to more medals in the future.

He said: "I am delighted.

"It's an honour and great moment of pride to receive Khel Ratna award from the President.

"With this award, I can say that the game has finally found its rightful place in the country and I am confident that we will bring more medals for the country in future ahead."

The words "Khel Ratna" literally translate to "Sports Gem" in Hindi and since being instituted in 1991 has been awarded to only 16 sportsmen and women. 

Previous winners have included Sachin Tendulkar, the country's best-known cricketer, who was given the award in 1997-98.



Wrestling has a poor reputation in some parts of India because it is associated with gangsters, which made the award even more special for Kumar (pictured left with Singh and Kom).

Kumar said: "In villages, in and around Delhi, many 'use' the services of pseudo wrestlers for illegal activities. Such people bring bad name to wrestling.

"This is unacceptable to me.

“Most wrestlers are simple human beings who, in the name of God, stay dedicated to the sport.

"Villagers encourage their young sons to take to wrestling so that he can bring a good name to the family.

"With his honour, more than me, my family feels proud.

"Now I am inspired to do even better,” 

The 26-year-old from from New Delhi won the Olympic bronze medal in the 66kg freestyle category in Beijing last year, India's first medal in wrestling since the 1952 Games in Helsinki when K D Jadhav also finished third.

With minimal funds and poor training facilities for wrestling in India, Kumar obtained the necessary dietary supplements by relying on his family to send him tinned milk and vegetables.

Upon his return, Kumar was showered with cash rewards from various companies and was also promoted from ticket inspector to assistant commercial manager by the Indian Railways, where he has worked since he was a teenager.