National Sports Day (29th August): Major Dhyan Chand’s Birthday

 

National Sports Day (29th August)

Major Dhyan Chand’s Birthday

“Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up.” – Dean Karazes

Different countries celebrate their National Sports Day on different dates according to their history and dates which have been declared by their Sports Committee. National Sports Day in India (also known as National Sports Day) is celebrated with great enthusiasm and vigour on 29 August every year. People of all age groups participate in sports like marathon, kabaddi, basketball, hockey etc. This day not only serves as entertainment for the people but also creates awareness about the role of sports in a person's life.

On this day various competitions are organized to recognize the best talent of the younger generation. It is also relevant to say that physical activities are used as cultural activities by many countries. It also makes it clear that the tune of the concept of games and sports can never get out of the mind.

History of National Sports Day (Dhyan Chand’s Birthday)

The history of National Sports Day of India dates back to 29 August 1905 when a boy named Dhyan Chand was born into a family in Allahabad district of Uttar Pradesh. He is considered one of the greatest hockey players in the history of the game. He earned three Olympic gold medals in hockey in 1928, 1932 and 1936.

He was called a "wizard" for his mastery of the art of ball control. He played his last international match in 1948. He scored over 400 goals during his international career. The Government of India honoured Dhyanchand with the Padma Bhushan, India's third highest honour in 1956. Therefore, his birthday, 29 August, is celebrated as National Sports Day in India.

 

Why is National Sports Day celebrated?

The importance of National Sports Day is immense. It is not only about celebrating this day but it is about celebrating the spirit of sports and games across the country. Utsav, means celebration and highlighting the importance of this day and attracting public attention towards sports. Such days recognize youth, provide employment and create awareness about the performance of Indian players in various competitions.

Sports fans of the country praise the work of various players and this day is celebrated with great excitement in memory of all those greatest players. The main objective of National Sports Day is to create awareness about the importance of sports and focus people to understand its benefits of human body.

Sports not only build character but also serve as great teachers and motivators.

There is no dearth of talent in a large country like India. We just have to identify the talent. Sports are a way to live a healthy and disease-free longevity and National Sports Day is one of the many platforms that help spread this message across the country. Sports instill a sense of friendship among the youth and develop a sense of unity among them. It not only makes the mind of the person sharp but also makes the mind strong and agile.

“It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe.” – Muhammad Ali

29th August is celebrated as the National Sports Day in memory of legendary Hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, who made India proud by his extraordinary sporting skills. 

To give tribute to such a great personality in the field of sports a special assembly was conducted by the students of Grade-V. The assembly started with the Thought for the Day, followed by a short Speech, Poem and Skit. It was an enlightening moment for all, when the students showed their passion for games.

The live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s launching of Fit India Movement was shown to the children and they took the pledge to remain fit and healthy. Various sports activities were organized in the school for Middle School students & Senior School students. The Sports teacher urged the students to make exercise a daily habit, as it will help in building a better personality. 

The Principal applauded the efforts of the children for presenting a very thoughtful assembly. She rewarded the students with medals, certificates and trophies.

“Gold medals aren’t really made of gold. They’re made of sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts.” – Dan Gable