New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying homage to one of India’s greatest sporting icons, Major Dhyan Chand, on the occasion of his 118th birth anniversary and the 12th National Sports Day. The Prime Minister took to his X , formally known as Twitter, handle to extend his best wishes to Indian sports enthusiasts on this special day dedicated to celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship.
On National Sports Day, my greetings to all sportspersons. India is proud of their contributions to the nation. I pay homage to Major Dhyan Chand Ji as well on his birth anniversary.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2023
National Sports Day, observed across the country, is a fitting tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, renowned for his exceptional skills in field hockey, characterised by remarkable goal-scoring ability and superb ball control.
Major Dhyan Chand’s illustrious career saw him achieve the pinnacle of success, earning India three Olympic gold medals in hockey during the 1928, 1932, and 1936 Olympics. His contribution to Indian hockey was monumental, with a total of 570 goals scored for the national team.
Dhyan Chand’s journey to greatness began when he played for the United Provinces team before being selected to represent India at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. In that historic event, India clinched its maiden gold medal in the sport.
His on-field prowess earned him the moniker ‘Magician of Hockey,’ thanks to his incredible ball control, precise passes, and mesmerising dribbling skills that captivated audiences around the world.
In the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, Dhyan Chand, along with his brother Roop Singh, continued their dominance, contributing significantly to India’s gold medal win. The duo’s remarkable scoring prowess earned them the affectionate nickname hockey twins.’
Dhyan Chand’s leadership qualities were recognised in 1934 when he was appointed captain of the Indian hockey team. His leadership culminated in India’s resounding victory at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where they defeated the host nation, Germany, 8-1 in the finals, with Dhyan Chand himself netting three goals.
Even beyond his Olympic triumphs, Major Dhyan Chand’s stardom shone brightly in domestic and international matches, earning him global acclaim.
Following his retirement from the army as a major in 1956, Major Dhyan Chand was conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award. He continued to contribute to the sport by coaching for many years.
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