Tributes to hockey wizard: Sports events mark 120th birth anniv

The district administration on Friday paid tributes to hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand on the occasion of National Sports Day in Bilaspur. A special programme was organised at the Sports Complex, Bilaspur, by the Department of Youth Services and Sports in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Khelo India, to mark the 120th birth anniversary of the legendary player.

Bilaspur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar offered floral tributes and shared inspiring anecdotes from Major Dhyan Chand’s life. He said National Sports Day is observed every year on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of the hockey legend. He added that the Khelo India movement was also launched on this day to encourage youth participation in sports. Highlighting this year’s theme, “One hour, on the playground”, he urged citizens to dedicate at least an hour daily to physical activity and games.

The DC emphasised that sports are not merely a source of entertainment or competition but a vital part of life, fostering discipline, confidence, team spirit and leadership qualities. He said sports contribute to physical fitness, mental strength and social well-being and every individual should incorporate them into their routine for a healthier lifestyle.

Recalling Major Dhyan Chand’s achievements, he said the “Magician of Hockey” is regarded as the greatest field hockey player of all time. Under his leadership, India clinched three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932 and 1936, elevating Indian hockey to global recognition.

The event was attended by District Sports Officer Uttam Dod, handball coach Manoj Thakur, coaches Pradeep Kalia, Naresh Gopal, Bhavana Chauhan, Arya Bhatt, Yodhraj, Pulkit Sharma, Surender Pal, Naeem Mohammad, Hansraj, Arjun, Mohit, Roshni, Sarpal, Meenu, Dinesh, Praveen, Mahaveer, Yamuna Dutt, Pooja Anita and other officials and staff of the District Sports Office Bilaspur.

IIAS hold sports events

Shimla: On the occasion of National Sports Day, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, successfully held the inaugural session of its annual sports competitions this evening at the sports complex. The event was dedicated to the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand (1905-1979).

The inaugural session was presided over by the Institute’s Secretary Mehar Chand Negi. Fellows, associates, officers and staff of the institute participated enthusiastically. Following the formal commencement, the competitions were declared open. Friendly matches were then conducted in badminton and table tennis, where participants displayed exemplary discipline, coordination and sportsman spirit. — TNS

Three-day sports fest begins in Una

Una: On the occasion of the National Sports Day, a three-day sports fest was launched at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in Una city on Friday. The District Youth Services and Sports department organised the show.

Speaking on the occasion, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Prince Pathania said the National Sports Day is observed in the memory of Major Dhyan Chand, also known as the Wizard of Hockey. He said Dhyan Chand was a legend of Indian Hockey, who not only lifted the game at the international level, but is also remembered for discipline, dedication and commitment on the field.

He said on the first day, hockey matches were organised between different teams from the district and the matches were played on the astro turf. He said on Saturday, competitions in wrestling, volleyball, kabaddi and tug of war will be held, while on the third day, a cycle run will be organised as a closing event. — OC

Auckland House girls celebrate sports day

Shimla: Auckland House School for Girls celebrated its Senior Section Sports Day with great enthusiasm and sporting spirit. The chief guest for the occasion was Surinder Chauhan, Mayor of Shimla Municipal Corporation, while Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushik and Councillor Meena Chauhan also graced the event, encouraging the young athletes with their presence.

The function commenced with a spectacular march past, followed by vibrant displays of gymnastics, karate, yoga, aerobics and PT drills. Students then competed in a wide range of athletic events, including softball, high jump, shot put, relay races and tug of war.

In the overall house results, Matthew House clinched the first position, followed by Lefroy House in second, Durrant House in third and French House in fourth place.

Addressing the gathering, the chief guest lauded the students for their discipline, sportsmanship and enthusiasm, motivating them to excel in both academics and extracurricular activities. The day concluded with the prize distribution ceremony, celebrating individual and team achievements.

Notable winners included Ankur Chauhan, who received the Memorial Best Athlete Award; Himalika Sharma, who was declared Victor Ludorum; and Ragini Thakur, who secured the Marching Cup for Matthew House. The NCC contingent and Pipe Band added grandeur to the event, marching to the tune of Iktara.

The Sports Shield and Proficiency Cup were awarded to Matthew House, while the Progress Cup went to Lefroy House. — TNS