Celebrations mark 100 years of Indian hockey

India celebrated 100 years of hockey. Indian Hockey Federation was formed on November 7, 1925. To commemorate this milestone, Hockey India organised nationwide celebrations. The celebrations marked a proud moment for Indian hockey, honouring its rich legacy and inspiring future generations.

In Ludhiana, the day was celebrated with great enthusiasm as the Ludhiana Hockey organised two exhibition matches (boys and girls) at the Olympian Prithipal Singh AstroTurf Hockey Stadium at the Punjab Agricultural University. The matches featured local teams during which talented upcoming players showcased skills and talent.

Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, was the chief guest on the occasion. Addressing the players and spectators, present there, Dr Gosal said it was indeed India’s pride, dominating the world stage with numerous Olympic gold medals and World Cup victories.

“The sports’ popularity is unmatched, with legends like Dhiyan Chand and Balbir Singh Sr inspiring generations. Three star players from the university Prithipal Singh, Charanjit Singh and Ramandeep Singh Grewal led the Indian hockey team,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

Speaking on the occasion, former international players — Sukhvir Singh Grewal (World Cup 1978 at Buenos Aires), coach, Hardeep Singh Grewal (Olympics at Los Angeles in 1984), and Baldev Singh, Dronacharya awardee (hockey) rued that despite such great history of achievements, young players were opting for other games, especially cricket, due to its massive popularity and lucrative opportunities.

“Hockey’s popularity has taken a hit, and it’s a concern for the sport’s future. Lack of infrastructure, inadequate funding and limited exposure are some reasons contributing to this trend. Efforts are needed to revive interest and make hockey appealing to the younger generations,” they said.

Dr Nirmal Singh Jaura, Director, Students’ Welfare, PAU, Col JS Gill, Ajay Pal Singh Punia, general secretary, Ludhiana Hockey, former hockey players — Tejdeep Bhalla, Manmohan Mishra, Gurteg Singh (coach), Dr Anil Sharma, Durlabh Singh and Comdt Jaswinder Singh — were also present at the stadium during the centenary celebration.

Similarly, Jarkhar Hockey Academy, Jarkhar village, near here, celebrated the day by holding matches in under 14, 17 and 19 categories. Sharanjit Kaur, gold medallist in 1982 Asian Games highlighted the achievements of Indian players at the international-level tournaments. Jagroop Singh Jarkhar, academy Director, advised players to concentrate on their goal and strive hard to achieve the same. Principal Hardev Singh thanked the guests, coaches and players.