Have you ever wondered why Field Hockey is considered as the National sport of India even though the revelation came from the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs that its not our national game!! Or have you read in your school textbooks about hockey being Country’s sports? Well, it’s been clear that hockey is not our national sports but all the rumors and misinformation just came out of pride when India won the Olympics Gold in 1928 for Field Hockey. And all the credits for this go to major Dhyan Chand.
Introduction Major Dhyan Chand
Major Dhyan Chand’s birthday is celebrated as National Sports Day to respect his service towards India. He was born on the 29th of August 1905 in Allahabad. His father enlisted in the British Indian Army and played hockey for the army. In 1922 at the age of 17, he also enlisted in the British Indian Army as a sepoy. Between 1922-1926 Dhyan Chand played hockey extensively in regiments and got selected for the Indian Army team tour to NewZealand. For his performance, he got selected for the 1928 Olympics.
Also, the history was made in 1928 India won from the home team Netherland, with 3-0. A newspaper report about India’s triumph said “This is not a game of hockey, but magic. Dhyan Chand is in fact the magician of hockey” and since then rest is what we say history. It was said that none of the players could see what he did on the field he was blazing fast. From 1928-1956 India won all the Gold in Olympics for Field Hockey.
After 34 years of service, Dhyan Chand retired from the Indian Army as a lieutenant in 1956. Indian Government honored him the same year by conferring Padma Bhusan.
It is very sad that the so-called millennial nowadays hardly know him and his work. This man is the face of hard work behind many Olympics Gold won by India and a lot of accolades till ages. An officer, a father, a true citizen, and a hockey wizard; he is worthy of all the praise we can give. He is an inspiration to the youngsters who today want to pursue Field Hockey.
Concluding Thoughts
At fin I would like to share an amazing fact I came across, it was reported that the German Leader Adolf Hitler was so mesmerized with Dhyan Chand’s skills that he offered him German citizenship and a position of Colonel in the German Army, which Dhyan Chand denied.
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A graphic designer by profession, Ashutosh zealously indulges in photography, illustration, and painting. He intends to be a filmmaker and scribes stories in his downtime. Yes, an impassioned wanderlust and part-time foodie too!!
Nice
Superb ??
Very good