National Sports Day
National Sports Day is celebrated on 29 August every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. In 2012, this day was officially declared National Sports Day. The day also reminds us to recall athletes' contributions, extraordinary achievements, and influence in shaping societies.
National Sports Day, celebrated on 29 August, is a tribute to the unparalleled contribution of Major Dhyan Chand, the legendary Hockey player (also known as Hockey Wizard) born on this day. His membership in the Indian hockey team that clinched three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936, along with his receipt of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, solidified his status as a sports icon. His exceptional skills and sportsmanship on the field, often referred to as 'Chand's magic ', continue to inspire generations of athletes. In 2012, the Indian Government, recognising his extraordinary impact on sports, declared his birthday National Sports Day. This decision was a call to future generations to uphold the importance of sports and physical fitness, inspiring everyone to lead a healthy and active life.
The National Sports Day 2024 theme in India, 'Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies, 'highlights the unifying power of sports. Sports bring people together, promote understanding, and build strong communities. Sports foster teamwork, respect, and unity, helping to bridge social divides. Engaging in sports allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect and support one another, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity.
The primary motto of this day is to promote National Sports Day, spread awareness about the significance of sports, and encourage physical fitness and activity in daily life. Some important significances are as follows:-
National Sports Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of Indian athletes and the pride they bring to our nation. This celebration also promotes the importance of sports in our society, inspiring us all to strive for excellence.
On this day, various sporting events are held across the country. These events are open to all, regardless of age, gender, or skill level.
The aim is to encourage people to participate in sports and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The President of India gives away the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards on National Sports Day.
National Sports Day is celebrated extensively at the national level. It is organised yearly in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, and the President of India presents the National Sports Awards to the country's outstanding players.
Under the National Sports Award, players and former players are honoured with awards such as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, and Dronacharya Award. Along with all these honours, the "Dhyan Chand Award" is also given on this day.
After Major Dhyan Chand's death in 1979, the Indian Postal Department paid tribute to him and issued stamps in his honour. As a tribute to him, the National Stadium of Delhi has been renamed Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi.
Why is 29th August celebrated as National Sports Day?
National Sports Day in India is celebrated on 29 August, the birth anniversary of hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. This day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand Singh, who won gold medals in the Olympics for India in 1928, 1932, and 1936.
What is the significance of National Sports Day?
The primary aim of commemorating National Sports Day is to foster sports engagement among the nation's youth.
Which award is given on National Sports Day?
On August 29, National Sports Day and the anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand's birth, the President of India bestows the honours in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The highest sporting award in the nation is the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.
What is the theme for National Sports Day 2024?
The Theme for National Sports Day 2024 is 'Sport for the Promotion and Peaceful and Inclusive Societies'.
Follow us on Google News
