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New Delhi. The day of 29th August has special significance for the Indian sports world. National Sports Day is celebrated every year on this date in the country. The day is dedicated to the spirit of sportsmanship, fitness and encouraging young talent as it marks the birth anniversary of Indian hockey great Major Dhyanchand.

Major Dhyan Chand took Indian hockey to the top of the world at a time when the country had not even gained independence. He was called the 'Wizard of Hockey' due to his exceptional ball control, excellent dribbling and goal-scoring ability. His achievements are still an inspiration for the young players of the country.

Why is National Sports Day celebrated only on 29th August?

The biggest reason behind this is the birthday of Major Dhyanchand. He was born on 29 August 1905 in then Allahabad and present day Prayagraj.

The Government of India decided to celebrate 29 August as National Sports Day for the first time in the year 2012. After this, every year on this day various programs are organized across the country to encourage sports and players.

The purpose of National Sports Day is not just to remember a great player. Through this, the aim is to connect the youth with sports, increase awareness about fitness and strengthen the sports culture in the country.

The story of the name 'Chand' to practice in the moonlight night

A famous incident to Dhyanchand's early life and hockey practice is to his name. It is said that after completing his army duty, he used to practice hockey even at night. Because of practicing in moonlit nights, his colleagues started calling him 'Chand'.

Later, this name became a part of his identity and he became famous in the world as Major Dhyanchand. Although many stories to his life are popular, not all of them have independent historical confirmation.

Hockey journey started from army

Dhyanchand's father was in the British Indian Army. He also later joined the army. While in the army, he played regimental hockey and gradually his talent became recognized at the national level.

The biggest feature of his playing style was his exceptional control of the ball. He used to create opportunities to score goals by leaving the opposition players behind through dribbling. His game gave Indian hockey a distinct identity on the international stage.

Olympic debut and first gold in 1928

Major Dhyan Chand made his Olympic debut with the Indian team in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. In this competition, the Indian team won the hockey gold medal and Dhyanchand's performance brought him international recognition.

After this, India also won the gold medal in hockey in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. By this time Dhyanchand had started being counted among the leading hockey players of the world.

Tricolor hoisted again in 1936 Berlin Olympics

The most memorable chapter of Dhyan Chand's career is considered to be the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The Indian team won the gold medal by defeating Germany 8-1 in the final match.

In this way Dhyan Chand became a part of the Indian team which won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932 and 1936. This achievement further strengthened the dominance of Indian hockey in front of the world.

Why was he called 'The Magician of Hockey'?

Seeing Dhyanchand's playing style, the spectators and sports lovers were impressed by his skills. His ball control, dribbling and ability to weave his way through opposition players were his biggest strengths.

Due to this extraordinary skill, he was known by names like 'Hockey Ka Jadugar' and 'The Magician of Hockey'. There are many stories to his popularity, but his actual achievements are the strongest proof of his greatness.

Three Olympic golds created an immortal identity

Major Dhyan Chand was not known only as a goal scorer. He was also known for his understanding of the game, ball control and ability to create chances for the team.

He played an important role in the Indian hockey team's consecutive golden successes in the 1928, 1932 and 1936 Olympics. This is why his name is included among the most prestigious players in Indian sports history.

He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to sports.

What is special on National Sports Day?

On the occasion of National Sports Day, sports competitions, awareness programs and fitness events are organized across the country. Events to National Sports Awards are also held around this day to honor the achievements of players and coaches.

The basic message of this day is that sports are not just a medium to win medals. Sports also play an important role in developing discipline, fitness, self-confidence, team spirit and leadership abilities.

From Dhyan Chand's legacy to the hopes of 2036 Olympics

Today India is working towards strengthening its position in sports and preparing the new generation for the international level. There is also continuous emphasis on the need to involve children and youth in sports and physical activities from an early age.

Decathlon Sports India CEO Shankar Chatterjee has also stressed the need to engage the youth with sports and strengthen the 'playfield to podium' culture. He says that involving children in sports at an early age can strengthen India's Olympic prospects in the future.

During the period in which Major Dhyan Chand made India's identity in the world through hockey, today it is the responsibility of the new generation to carry forward the same legacy. Along with remembering this heritage, National Sports Day is also an opportunity to bring the youth of the country to the field.