Today, on August 29, India is celebrating the 120th birthday of the hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. To pay tribute to the legendary hockey player, his birthday is celebrated as the National Sports Day in India since 2012.
On this day, the nation celebrates the spirit of sport and our rich sporting culture. PM Modi pays tribute to the ‘Wizard of Hockey’ on this significant day while putting forward Indian’s winning streak in sports.
India Celebrates Major Dhyan Chand’s 120th Birthday
On 229th August, 1905, Major Dhyan Chand was born in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The legendary field hockey star led India to win its first-ever hockey Olympic gold in 1928, then in 1932 and 1936. With 185 international games and 570 goals, he defined his title ‘The Wizard’ when it comes to playing hockey.
PM Modi Pays Tribute to The Legend
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a post on his X handle, showing tribute to the nation’s hockey icon. The PM wrote, “Greetings on National Sports Day! On this special occasion, we pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose excellence continues to inspire generations.”
Then he briefly applauds for all the sporting stars putting India in a proud position in global sport, even in these years. He launches the Fit India 2.0, which demands every individual to spend at least one hour in the playing grounds.
Fit India: ‘Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan’ Campaign
The Major Dhyan Chand 120th birth anniversary, therefore, brings fresh inspiration for the youth interested in sports. Today, in the New Delhi Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Minister Mandaviya pays tribute to the legend with flowers. Then he commences a three-day sports movement for every Indian, naming it “Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main”.
On this National Sports Day 2025, India also proudly highlights the achievements of women athletes and their growing participation in sports. From the top title of Olympic medals to the grassroots players, female sportspersons are growing and breaking the stigma with class. Following Major Dhyan Chand’s legacy, the country will continue to foster new records in sports in the years ahead.
