TOISA 2025 Returns to Celebrate India's Sporting Excellence
The Times of India Sports Awards is set to make a grand comeback with its eighth edition, shining a spotlight on the remarkable journeys and achievements of India's finest athletes across a diverse range of sports. The highly anticipated TOISA 2025 ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 21, 2026, in the vibrant city of Lucknow.
A Gathering of Sporting Icons and Rising Stars
This prestigious event will bring together some of the country's biggest sporting legends alongside emerging talents who have brought glory to India over the past year. It serves as a platform to honor performances recorded between January 1 and December 31, 2025, a period marked by memorable victories and inspiring stories from global championships and major international tournaments.
The awards aim to highlight both established champions and young athletes who are actively shaping the future of Indian sport, fostering a culture of excellence and dedication.
Esteemed Jury and Nomination Highlights
The winners will be determined by an esteemed jury comprising sporting legends such as Abhinav Bindra, PR Sreejesh, Mithali Raj, Devendra Jhajharia, Sharath Kamal, and Leander Paes. This edition will recognize athletes across more than 45 sporting categories, showcasing the depth and breadth of India's sporting prowess.
Among the notable nominees are several kabaddi players who have made significant contributions to the sport in 2025:
- Sanju Devi: Born on December 19, 2002, in Kerakachar village, Korba district, Chhattisgarh, she enjoyed a breakthrough season. Named the Most Valuable Player at the Women's Kabaddi World Cup, her performance in the final was crucial, delivering important raid points at decisive moments. She also played a key role in India's gold medal win at the Asian Championship in Iran.
- Pawan Sehrawat: Born on July 9, 1996, in New Delhi, he led the Indian men's team to the Kabaddi World Cup title in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, with a narrow 44-41 victory over England. His leadership and attacking approach were instrumental throughout the tournament. Off the mat, he rejoined the Tamil Thalaivas for ₹59.5 lakh in the Pro Kabaddi League auction.
- Ritu Negi: Born on May 30, 1992, in Sharog village, Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh, she captained the national team to the Women's Kabaddi World Cup title in Dhaka, defeating Chinese Taipei 35-28 in the final. Her leadership and tactical awareness guided India to an unbeaten campaign despite injury concerns.
- Arjun Deshwal: Born on July 7, 1999, in Basera village, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, he was part of the Indian team that won the Kabaddi World Cup. He also led Uttar Pradesh to gold at the 71st Senior Men's National Kabaddi Championship and scored 209 raid points in Season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League.
Celebrating Passion and Dedication
As the eighth edition of TOISA approaches, the stories of athletes like Sanju Devi, Pawan Sehrawat, Ritu Negi, and Arjun Deshwal underscore the passion and dedication that drive Indian sport forward. This event not only honors past achievements but also inspires future generations to strive for greatness in the sporting arena.
