Who Was Major Dhyan Chand? Remembering India’s ‘Hockey Wizard’ on National Sports Day
On National Sports Day, India honours Major Dhyan Chand — legendary hockey star, 3-time Olympic gold medallist, and Padma Bhushan awardee.
Major Dhyan Chand’s Unmatched Career: Over 1,000 Goals, 3 Olympic Golds, and Lasting Inspiration
Honouring a Hockey Icon on National Sports Day
India marks National Sports Day every year on August 29 to celebrate the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand (1905–1979), widely regarded as one of the greatest field hockey players of all time. Known as the ‘Hockey Wizard’, his unmatched skills made him an icon in Indian and world hockey.
Career Highlights – 3 Olympic Golds for India
♦ Olympic triumphs: India clinched gold medals under his leadership and participation at:
→ 1928 Amsterdam Olympics
→ 1932 Los Angeles Olympics
→ 1936 Berlin Olympics
♦ Prolific scorer: Dhyan Chand is credited with scoring over 1,000 goals in his career—a staggering record that remains legendary.
♦ Army beginnings: He joined the First Brahmin Regiment of the Indian Army in 1922 as a soldier, where Major Tiwari encouraged him to play hockey, shaping his early career.
♦ National recognition: In 1956, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, for his unparalleled contribution to sports.
National Sports Day 2025 Theme
This year’s theme is “Sport to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies”, underscoring the role of athletics in uniting communities and fostering harmony.
Tributes from the Prime Minister
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Major Dhyan Chand on X (formerly Twitter):
“Greetings on National Sports Day! On this special occasion, we pay tribute to Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose excellence continues to inspire generations. In the last decade, India’s sporting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation.”
Why Major Dhyan Chand’s Legacy Endures
From humble beginnings to global recognition, Dhyan Chand’s dedication, discipline, and artistry on the hockey field turned him into a role model for generations of athletes. National Sports Day is not just a tribute to his memory but also a reminder of India’s rich sporting heritage.
