India celebrated National Sports Day on August 29th, marking the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. The day is a testament to the impact of this iconic figure and serves as a reminder of the power of sports to inspire generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, expressing his homage to Major Dhyan Chand on X (formerly Twitter). He acknowledged the significance of the day, emphasizing the dedication of athletes and the government’s commitment to supporting sports.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya paid floral tributes at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, further emphasizing the importance of the occasion.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also expressed his respect for Major Dhyan Chand, highlighting his contributions to Indian hockey and his lasting legacy as an inspiration for future generations of athletes.
National Sports Day, established in 2012, aims to foster national unity, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage youth participation in sports. It serves as a platform to recognize the achievements of Indian athletes and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju joined the tributes, paying homage to ‘The Wizard of Indian Hockey’ on his birth anniversary.
Dhyan Chand, renowned as ‘The Wizard,’ was a prolific scorer for the Indian hockey team from 1925 to 1949. He achieved legendary status with over 1500 goals in 185 international matches, guiding India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. His remarkable achievements earned him the Padma Bhushan in 1956.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Dhyan Chand, recognizing his unwavering dedication and the influence he had on the development of sports in India.
This National Sports Day served as a potent reminder of Major Dhyan Chand’s enduring impact on Indian sports and a call to action for promoting sports and healthy lifestyles for generations to come.
