National Sports Day 2024: Tributes Paid to Hockey Legend Major Dhyan Chand
National Sports Day 2024: On August 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary. In his message on X, PM Modi expressed his greetings on National Sports Day and honored Major Dhyan Chand, noting that the day is an opportunity to celebrate those passionate about sports and recognize those who have represented India. He highlighted the government's commitment to supporting sports and encouraging more young people to excel in athletic pursuits.
Greetings on National Sports Day. Today we pay homage to Major Dhyan Chand Ji. It is an occasion to compliment all those passionate about sports and those who have played for India. Our Government is committed to supporting sports and ensuring more youth are able to play and… pic.twitter.com/nInOuIOrpp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2024
National Sports Day Observance
National Sports Day is celebrated every year on August 29 to mark the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, a celebrated hockey player known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.
Remembering hockey wizard, the face of Indian sporting, our pride Major Dhyan Chand on his jayanti.
Celebrated as #NationalSportsDay in the country, this day is a reminder of the stellar contributions of Maj. Chand to Indian hockey and an inspiration to generations of… pic.twitter.com/xw7G5XuzVM
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) August 29, 2024
Floral Tributes in New Delhi
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also paid floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. He explained that the tribute was part of the National Sports Day celebrations and emphasized that the day honors Dhyan Chand's contributions to Indian hockey.
State Leaders’ Acknowledgements
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also paid homage to Dhyan Chand, calling him “the face of Indian sport” and expressing pride in his legacy. Sarma emphasized that National Sports Day is a reminder of Major Dhyan Chand’s significant impact on Indian hockey and his role as an inspiration for future athletes.
Purpose of National Sports Day
National Sports Day, established by the Indian government in 2012, aims to promote national unity, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and inspire the younger generation to engage in sports.
Other Tributes and Recognitions
Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, also paid tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, referring to him as "The Wizard of Indian Hockey." Dhyan Chand, celebrated for scoring over 1,500 goals in 185 international matches, led the Indian hockey team to three Olympic Gold Medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1956.
Union Home Minister’s Tribute
Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid his respects, stating, “I honor Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary and wish everyone a Happy National Sports Day. Major Dhyan Chand’s dedication and practice set a benchmark for achieving goals and his legacy inspires future generations in sports.”
हॉकी के जादूगर मेजर ध्यानचंद जी की जयंती पर उन्हें नमन करता हूँ और समस्त देशवासियों को ‘राष्ट्रीय खेल दिवस’ की शुभकामनाएँ देता हूँ।
मेजर ध्यानचंद जी का जीवन इस बात का प्रतीक है कि अटूट लगन और अनवरत साधना से कोई भी लक्ष्य प्राप्त किया जा सकता है। उन्होंने न सिर्फ भारतीय हॉकी को… pic.twitter.com/G7uJrCyhhp
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 29, 2024
Legacy of Major Dhyan Chand
Major Dhyan Chand, known as “The Wizard,” symbolizes excellence in Indian hockey. His remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport inspire athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.
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