Legendary Indian wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer has revealed that despite being named for the Padma Shri in 1973, he has yet to receive the award or any official communication.

Key Takeaways

  • Legendary stumper Farokh Engineer was announced as a Padma Shri recipient in 1973.
  • After 53 years, the 88-year-old veteran claims he has received no official intimation.
  • The BCCI is reportedly preparing to write to the government regarding this oversight.
  • Engineer's name is officially listed on the Padma Awards website for the year 1973.

In a startling revelation that has sent ripples through the cricketing fraternity, former Indian wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer has expressed his long-standing grievance regarding the Padma Shri. Despite being named as a recipient of India's fourth-highest civilian honor over five decades ago, the 88-year-old legend claims he has never received the physical award or any formal communication from the government.

Engineer, who is currently based in England, recalled the moment of announcement in 1973. "I was playing in England at the time. Our team manager Hemu Adhikari informed me that I was getting the Padma Shri as it was all over the newspapers. But I have not received any communication or intimation in this regard. I have been waiting to get my award ever since," the former Test player told reporters.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this discrepancy highlights significant administrative gaps in the historical documentation and distribution of national honors. While the official Padma Awards website lists Engineer as an awardee for 1973, the lack of follow-through suggests a massive bureaucratic lapse that has left a sporting icon in limbo for half a century.

"I may be living in England but from the bottom of my heart, I’m an Indian. I would love to frame it and be invited to the Rashtrapati Bhavan." - Farokh Engineer

The veteran, who played 46 Tests for India between 1961 and 1975, has not sat idle. He mentioned reaching out to the late Arun Jaitley and most recently to ICC Chair Jay Shah, who has reportedly promised assistance. Sources indicate that the BCCI will now take formal steps by writing to the government to resolve this decades-old issue.

Historical Background

Farokh Engineer was a flamboyant wicketkeeper-batsman who played a crucial role in Indian cricket during the 1960s and 70s. His prowess was such that he was selected as the first-choice wicketkeeper for the prestigious 'Rest of the World' team during their tours of England and Australia in the early 1970s.

Did You Know?: The Padma Shri is awarded for distinguished service in various fields, including sports, and includes a medallion and a certificate signed by the President of India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Is Farokh Engineer's name on the official list?
Answer: Yes, the official Padma Awards website lists him as an awardee for the year 1973.

Question 2: What is the BCCI doing about this?
Answer: The BCCI is expected to write an official letter to the government to highlight Engineer's situation.