Richa Ghosh Receives Banga Bhushan, Elevated to DSP and Awarded Rs 34 Lakh

At a glamorous ceremony held on the Eden Gardens turf on Saturday, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, a pivotal player in the Indian women’s World Cup winning team, was celebrated with affection and accolades, marking her rise as a sports legend.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, representing the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), presented Richa with a gold-plated bat and ball, along with a cheque for ₹34 lakh, symbolizing each run she made in the World Cup final. Additionally, Mamata awarded her the prestigious Banga Bhushan honor and a gold chain, while also appointing her as a Deputy Superintendent of Police, all in the presence of Richa’s proud parents.

Mamata expressed her joy for the women’s team’s achievements, saying, “I’m happy for the women’s team’s success. Let Richa play the way she wants to.”

Sourav Ganguly, former India captain and current CAB president, highlighted Richa’s contributions and expressed his hope to see her as a future ‘India captain.’

Jhulan Goswami, former captain of the Indian women’s team and Richa’s mentor, emphasized the importance of building on this success to inspire more talents like Richa.

Following a hero’s welcome in Siliguri the previous day, Richa was ecstatic about the warm reception at the event.

Discussing her performance, Richa explained, “When I bat at the nets, I set targets and try to achieve those to handle pressure. I practise how to hit sixes. Choosing the right deliveries is important.”

One of the highlights of the event was when around 50 aspiring female cricketers, dressed in Richa’s No. 13 jersey and chanting her name, gathered around the new icon for a memorable photo on the stage.

Published on November 8, 2025.