National Sports Day (Source – Twitter/X)
August 29 marks the birth anniversary of Hockey legend, Major Dhyan Chand. The Indian government in 2012 coined the day as National Sports Day, in honour of the iconic sportsman and to highlight the importance of physical activity as well as the importance of sports in individuals. Dhyan Chand was widely regarded as ‘The Wizard of Hockey.’ Born on August 29, 1905, he was an integral part of India’s three Olympic gold medal wins in 1928, 1932, and 1936, respectively.
The stalwart’s prowess with the hockey stick is evident in the fact that he represented India in 185 games, and scored a monumental 400 goals. He started his career in 1926 and ended a 32-year-long on-field association with hockey in 1948.
Apart from celebrating the day through various events, the President of India presents the National Sports Awards, including the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and Major Dhyan Chand Award.
The National Sports Day in India is celebrated with an annual theme and this year’s theme is yet to be announced. However, the University Grant Commission stresses the theme of “Sports for Unity.” The last year’s theme was “Sports as an enabler to an inclusive and fit society.” The point of celebrating the day rooted in Dhyan Chand is to reflect on the importance of sports in our lives, promote physical fitness, and inspire the next generation of athletes.
#NationalSportsDay on August 29 is a tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, whose hockey skills and achievements brought international acclaim to India and inspired countless athletes. pic.twitter.com/4R068IPM8c
— Virushka (@Virushka_018) August 29, 2024
Here’s how the cricketers reacted on National Sports Day:
The icon who showed the world what an Indian athlete is made of! 🇮🇳#MajorDhyanChand #NationalSportsDay pic.twitter.com/ADcpJyiiDr
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 29, 2024
Cricket has given me more than just accolades. It has taught me life lessons that go beyond the pitch. Here’s to the transformative power of sports!#NationalSportsDay
— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) August 29, 2024
On this National Sports Day, I look back on how cricket has shaped my life and values. Sports teach us to overcome challenges, build character, and foster unity. Let’s keep the spirit of sports alive in every aspect of our lives. #NationalSportsDay
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) August 29, 2024
Happy National sports day 😊🙏 pic.twitter.com/EpKVyHWboS
— Rahul Sharma (@ImRahulSharma3) August 29, 2024
Greetings on #NationalSportsDay !
Remembering the contributions of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary today.
On this day, let’s honor our athletes, past and present, who have brought glory to the nation and continue to motivate us to strive for excellence… pic.twitter.com/lbg4QSoYaB
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) August 29, 2024
Happy National Sports Day to all our incredible athletes! Let’s fuel our passion and determination to make India a true sporting powerhouse.
Together, we can achieve greatness on and off the field!#NationalSportsDay2024
— DK (@DineshKarthik) August 29, 2024
National Sports Day always makes me reflect on the hard work and dedication of our athletes.
Today, as we honour Major Dhyan Chand, let’s celebrate the passion and commitment that drives our sports community.
Wishing everyone the strength to keep chasing their dreams. Happy…
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) August 29, 2024
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