Mumbai: Fifteen-time world champion Pankaj Advani has been recommended for Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, by the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI).
This is the second time in a row for Advani as he was recommended for the honour last year too but was overlooked. This news came out after BSFI secretary S. Balasubramanian released a statement on Thursday. “Yes, we have recommended Pankaj for the second year in a row. He is a deserving candidate and hopefully he would get the award this time.”
Advani has been bestowed with several other honors too in the past. He has already been conferred with a Padma Shri (2009), Khel Ratna (2005-06) and Arjuna Award (2004). The Padma awards are given for distinguished and exceptional achievements, service in fields such as art, literature and education, sports, medicine, social work, science and engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade and industry.
Nominees in league for this prestigious honor from the sporting fraternity among others are two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar, Dronacharya awardee Yashvir Singh and female wrestler Alka Tomar.
Home Ministry has issued a notification stating September 15 will be the last date for receipt of the nominations for Padma awards. Nominations/recommendations placed after that will not be considered.
Meanwhile, amidst all the nominations, ace cueist Advani has made his way into the pre-quarterfinals of the SangSom 6 Red World Championship in Bangkok on Thursday. He maintained a clean slate in the group stage with an all-win record.
The Indian defeated Welshman Dominic Dale, England’s Robert Milkins, Ryan Thomerson from Australia and local talent Phaitoon Phonbun.