Sanjay Kalirawana

About Sanjay Kalirawana

“Hockey has always been my way of expressing myself, it has been a way for me to transform every challenge into something powerful and meaningful.”

Born on May 5, 2001, in Dabra, Hisar, Haryana, Sanjay Kalirawana’s path to hockey was shaped by his family as he was heavily motivated from an early age by his older cousins who played the sport. He entered the world of hockey in 2008 when he was just 7 years old. Despite facing some financial difficulties that compelled him to borrow hockey sticks from time to time, his zeal for the game was never affected.

In 2011, after receiving some training, he was selected to join the Chandigarh Hockey Academy which laid the foundation for his future career in the sport. His breakthrough moment came in 2015, when he scored a hat-trick in the final of the 5th Sub Junior National Hockey Championship, leading his team to victory and earning recognition across the nation.

Sanjay Kalirawana next captained India U-21 at the School Asia Cup 2017 where his captaincy lifted the team to victory in the finals. He then served as the vice-captain for the Indian team during the Buenos Aires Summer Youth Olympics where Sanjay Kalirawana clinched silver for India in the competition. His performance at the 2021 Junior Hockey World Cup, where he became the highest goal scorer with 8 goals, solidified his position as a top contender in Indian hockey.

Since making his senior debut in 2022, Sanjay Kalirawana’s medals and accolades have been many, including winning gold medals during the 2023 Asian Games and at the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy. His bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics has only added to his growing legacy and further testified to his perseverance and talent on the international stage.

With numerous accolades, including the Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for the Upcoming Player of the Year in 2021, Sanjay’s journey is a testament to his unwavering determination. As part of the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, he will be a key figure in the team’s defensive lineup.

Sanjay’s story reflects dedication, integrity, and a passion for the game that, in his own way, upheld his family’s values through unwavering determination. He is a definitive role model for budding players where hard work, tenacity, and patience can make any dream a reality.