National Sports Day 2023: Remembering ‘Hockey Wizard’ Major Dhyan Chand
Major Dhyan Chand Birth Anniversay: National Sports Day in India is celebrated every year on August 29. It is dedicated to the memory of Major Dhyan Chand Singh, the legendary Indian field hockey player, to honor his significant contributions to Indian sports and his remarkable achievements in the field of hockey.
Major Dhyan Chand's birthday falls on August 29th, and the day is observed as National Sports Day to recognize his excellence, dedication, and impact on the nation's sporting landscape.
The day is celebrated as a tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, known for his goal-scoring ability and superb ball control.
Major Dhyan Chand Singh was an Indian field hockey player widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Born in Allahabad, India, Major Dhan Chand was known for his exceptional skills on the hockey field which earned him the nickname "The Wizard" or "The Magician"
His incredible ball control, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability were unparalleled, and his exploits on the field left both opponents and spectators in awe.
A three-time Olympic gold medal winner, Major Dhyan Chand was part of the Indian hockey team that won gold in the 1928, 1932 and 1936 editions of the Olympics. In his 185 appearances for the country, he scored 570 goals for India.
Dhyan Chand played field hockey for the United Provinces team from where he got selected to play for the Indian team that went to the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics.
In the 1928 Olympics, the Indian team won gold defeating their opponents by huge margins. This was the country's first gold medal.
Dhyan Chand netted many goals and international newspapers described him as a 'magician of hockey'. His amazing control over the ball and superb passes garnered a lot of attention and appreciation.
In 1934, Chand was made the captain of the Indian team.Chand played many domestic and international matches and shone like a star in all of them.
In 1956, Chand retired from the army as a Major.
Dhyan Chand received numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan (India's third-highest civilian award) in 1956. He was also awarded the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 2000. The Government of India instituted the National Sports Day in his honor, which is celebrated on his birthday, August 29.
Major Dhyan Chand's contribution to Indian sports is immense. He is often remembered as an embodiment of sportsmanship, dedication, and excellence.
Dhyan Chand is still considered the greatest hockey player of all time
- With inputs from agencies
