Vandana Katariya and Lalit Upadhyay Honoured by Hockey India for Their Stellar Careers

Rajgir (Bihar) – Hockey India paid a glowing tribute to two of India’s finest strikers, Vandana Katariya and Lalit Upadhyay, who bid farewell to international hockey this year. The duo was felicitated during the ongoing Men’s Hockey Asia Cup in Rajgir, each receiving a cheque of ₹5 lakh in recognition of their remarkable contribution to Indian hockey.

Both Vandana, hailing from Roshnabad in Haridwar, and Lalit, from Varanasi, inspired a generation of young players, particularly from rural and modest backgrounds. Vandana’s legacy has already transformed her hometown, with an astro-turf field now enabling local girls to pursue hockey seriously.

The 32-year-old Vandana, regarded as one of India’s greatest women strikers, played 320 international matches, scoring 158 goals over a career spanning 15 years. A member of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics squad that finished fourth, she etched history by becoming the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Olympics, against South Africa.

Lalit Upadhyay, who represented India for 11 years, played 183 international matches, netting 67 goals. He was part of the Indian sides that clinched bronze medals at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.

Expressing gratitude, Vandana said, “Wearing the Indian jersey and representing my country has been the biggest honour of my life. Hockey gave me everything, and I will always cherish this journey.” Lalit added, “It is a matter of immense pride to have been part of India’s historic hockey moments. From my village in Varanasi to the Olympic podium, it has been a dream come true.”

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey praised them as “true ambassadors of Indian hockey,” while Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh called them symbols of grit, determination, and excellence.

Their farewell marks the end of two glittering international careers, but both legends remain committed to contributing to the sport in the years ahead.

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