National Sports Day 2024 Date and Significance:
National Sports Day, celebrated annually in India, honours the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of the greatest field hockey players in history.
Famously known as the “Wizard of Hockey,” Dhyan Chand made significant contributions to India’s national sport—hockey, bringing immense pride to the nation.
Dhyan Singh, a prominent member of the Indian hockey team, played a crucial role in India’s first successful Olympic gold medal tally at the 1928, 1932, and 1936 Summer Olympics.
It aims to inspire individuals of all ages to participate in physical activities, cultivate and promote a sports culture, and honour the achievements of athletes. Here’s all you need to know.
National Sports Day 2024: Date
Major Dhyan Chand is a legendary field hockey player and one of India’s most celebrated athletes. Dhyan Chand was born on August 29, 1905, and honouring his significant contributions and marking his birth anniversary, in 2012, the government of India decided to celebrate the day annually.
Additionally, this day is also marked by the need to promote sports and physical fitness across the nation. This year, in 2024, National Sports Day will be observed on Thursday, August 29.
Who is Dhyan Chand?
Dhyan Chand was born on August 29, 1905, was a prominent hockey player in India’s pre-independence period. He played a key role in India’s first hat-trick of Olympic gold medals, winning at the 1928, 1932, and 1936 Summer Olympics.
Singh started his hockey career with the British Indian Army regimental team, where he practiced under the moonlight, and rose through the ranks and was called up for the Indian hockey team for the 1928 Olympics.
He became known as ‘Hockey Wizard’ and ‘The Magician’ due to his stick work and understanding of the game; His career spanned from 1926 to 1948, and he became one of the greatest hockey players of all time.
Retiring as a Major in the Punjab Regiment of the Indian Army in 1956, he received the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award. Additionally, to honour his significant contributions, in 2012, the government of India decided to celebrate his birth anniversary as National Sports Day annually.,
National Sports Day 2024: Significance and celebrations
Major Dhyan Chand’s legacy continues to inspire athletes, and National Sports Day serves as a reminder of the importance of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and national pride.
Even the government of India uses this day as a platform to launch various sports schemes, such as the Khelo India movement, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018.
The celebration of National Sports Day also recognises the achievements of Indian athletes, celebrating their contributions to the nation’s pride and international stature.
The President of India often presents prestigious sports award, one of them being, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honour in the nation.
Schools, colleges, and sports institutions organise inter-school and intercollege competitions, sports festivals, and exhibitions to encourage participation in various sports.
Major cities and towns host marathons, fitness camps, and workshops led by renowned athletes and coaches.
Public awareness campaigns highlight the importance of sports in daily life, while community events bring people together to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.