Today marks a special day in India as the nation celebrates National Sports Day in honor of Major Dhyan Chand, a legendary figure in Indian sports history. Born on August 29, 1905, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Dhyan Chand is remembered as the “Hockey Magician” who played a crucial role in securing three Olympic gold medals for India in 1928, 1932, and 1936. If he were alive today, he would be celebrating his 119th birthday.
The Early Life and Unexpected Path to Hockey
Interestingly, hockey wasn’t Major Dhyan Chand’s first passion. As a young boy, Dhyan Chand, originally named Dhyan Singh, was deeply interested in wrestling. However, his life took a different turn when he joined the Indian Army at just 16 years old. It was during his time in the army that he was introduced to hockey by Major Tiwari of the Brahmin Regiment. This new sport quickly became his calling, leading him to become one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Dhyan Chand played his debut match for India in New Zealand on May 13, 1926, and continued to make the nation proud until his retirement in 1948.
A Legacy Honored and Remembered
In 2021, the Indian government paid tribute to Major Dhyan Chand’s immense contribution to sports by renaming the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sports honor, to the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. This change underscores the profound impact Dhyan Chand had on Indian sports and his enduring legacy.
A Heartfelt Tribute from His Son
On this National Sports Day, Major Dhyan Chand’s son, Olympian Ashok Kumar, unveiled a statue of his father in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The emotional ceremony was attended by many distinguished guests. Ashok Kumar expressed his deep pride in his father’s achievements, describing Major Dhyan Chand as not just a great player, but also a remarkable soldier, citizen, and father.
The Importance of National Sports Day
National Sports Day is more than just a celebration of one man’s achievements. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role sports play in uniting, inspiring, and transforming the nation. This day is a tribute to all the athletes who have made India proud on the global stage and a call for every Indian to embrace physical fitness, participate in sports, and lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
