Honoring the Wizard: National Sports Day Marks Unveiling of Dhyan Chand's Statue

On National Sports Day, Olympian Ashok Kumar unveiled a statue of his father, legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, in Jabalpur. The event honors Dhyan Chand's legacy and features a call by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for citizens to engage in sports to promote nationwide fitness.

On the occasion of National Sports Day, celebrated on Thursday, Olympian Ashok Kumar unveiled a statue of his father, the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Dhyan Chand, renowned as 'The Wizard' for his exceptional hockey skills, represented India from 1925 to 1949, scoring over 1500 goals in 185 international matches. His career includes three Olympic Gold Medal wins in 1928, 1932, and 1936. In 1956, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, and his birth anniversary on August 29 is observed as National Sports Day.

National Sports Day serves as a tribute to sports icons who have brought international laurels to the country. Ashok Kumar, expressing his emotions after unveiling his father's statue, noted Dhyan Chand's influence on national pride and self-respect. Kumar mentioned, 'A son got the chance to unveil his father's statue. His qualities and efficiency influenced the country and its self-respect. He started a new culture of hockey in India, setting new standards as a player, soldier, citizen, and father. It is a moment of pride for me. I thank the MPE department for it. The children who come here will get a new direction and inspiration.' Earlier on August 24, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, called on all citizens to participate in outdoor sports for at least one hour in celebration of National Sports Day.

This call to action aligns with the government's efforts to foster physical fitness and a sports culture nationwide. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's words, 'Khelega India, Khilega India' (When India plays, India blossoms), Mandaviya advocated, 'Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's dream is to make India a fit nation. The Fit India Movement, envisioned by him, is a programme for every citizen, and I invite you all to be part of this nationwide celebration on this year's National Sports Day.'

The Union Minister emphasized the importance of advancing the Prime Minister's Fit India Movement, underscoring that maintaining health and staying active is a responsibility for every Indian. 'Play any sport, stay fit!' Mandaviya urged, encouraging nationwide participation in the initiative. He also highlighted that National Sports Day is not just about honoring sports heroes but also about recognizing the role sports play in maintaining a balanced and healthy life.

Mandaviya appealed to everyone to engage in sports with family and friends on National Sports Day as a step towards building a fit and active India.

(With inputs from agencies.)