29 August – 2020
Dhyan Chand Jayanti’ is celebrated in India on 29th August every year. Dhyan Chand was born on 29th August 1905 in Allahabad. His father Sameshwar Dutt Singh was in the British Indian Army. Dhyan Chand was an Indian Hockey player widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time. He is most remembered for his goal-scoring feats and for his three Olympic gold medals (1928, 1932, and 1936) in field hockey. He is known as “The Wizard” for his superb ball control.
The birth anniversary of Indian hockey legend Dhyan Chand is celebrated in India as ‘National Sports Day’. On this day, various sporting events such as walkathon and football tournaments are held across the country as part of the National Sports Day celebration. The President of India Bestows prestigious awards to the sports persons who have contributed to the growth of sports all through their sports career.
Dhyan Chand’s life teaches us all to be determined and motivated with a zeal to achieve something even in the harshest time. We can truly learn a lot from the late great Major Dhyan Chand.
He said, “When I die, India will not shed a tear for me”. Unfortunately, Dhyan Chand passed away on December 3rd, 1979 due to Liver Cancer. He went to the All India Institute Of Medical Sciences for his treatment, however, he was living on a pension of Rs. 200 and was placed in the general ward because no one recognized him. Well, in a way Dhyan Chand predicted what was about to happen.
It’s sad that such a great and inspirational man who most probably is a role model for a lot of sportspeople met such a sad end. R.I.P and Happy Birthday Major Dhyan ‘Wizard’ Chand.