Major Dhyan Chand: Remembering the Hockey wizard on National Sports Day

Remembering the Hockey Wizard on National Sports Day. (Photos: X)

India honors Major Dhyan Chand, who is considered to be among the best hockey players of all time, on National Sports Day. Dhyan Chand was born in Allahabad (now Prayagraj) on August 29, 1905. His unparalleled skill has inspired generations of hockey players, earning him the moniker "Hockey Wizard."

With three straight gold medals at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, and 1936 Berlin Olympics, Dhyan Chand guided India's field hockey team to world dominance.

Between 1926 and 1948, the renowned hockey player scored over 1,000 goals during his playing career. In 1956, he received Padma Bhushan, the nation's most distinguished civilian award.

In 1922, Dhyan Chand joined the First Brahmin Regiment in Delhi as a regular soldier, marking the beginning of his career in the British Indian Army. Major Tiwari pushed him to play hockey when he was in the unit.

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This year, "Sport to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies" is the subject for National Sports Day.

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. From grassroots programmes that…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2025

In a post on X, PM Modi praised Major Dhyan Chand's abilities, commitment, and sportsmanship on his birth anniversary: “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.”

He added, "From grassroots programmes that nurture young talent to creating world-class facilities, we are seeing a vibrant sports ecosystem in our nation. Our government remains committed to supporting athletes, building infrastructure and making India a global hub for sporting excellence."