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National Sports Day 2017: Find out how India is celebrating Dhyan Chand’s birthday

August 29 2017
XtraTime
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The whole India is celebrating National Sports Day today. Image Source: XtraTime

Internet Desk: Major Dhyan Chand, who has been regarded as ‘The Wizard’ for his unforgettable hockey skills, was born on August 29, 1905, in Allahabad.

To show an honour to the legend,the Government of India decided to celebrate 29th August as the nation’s ‘National Sports Day’ from the year 2012.

Just like his father Sameshwar Singh, Dhyan Chand joined the Indian army to serve the nation. After joining the army he started playing hockey.

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Originally his name was Dhyan Singh, but during his time he had to practice only in moonlight, as there were no floodlights on that time in the country. After watching this, his friends and parents game him the name ‘Chand’, which means the moon.

The whole nation paid tributes to the legendary hockey player. On this auspicious day Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all sports persons and enthusiasts.

In a series of tweets, Modi said, “On #NationalSportsDay, I congratulate all sportspersons and sports enthusiasts who pursue sports with great vigour and passion.”

  “I pay tributes to the exemplary Major Dhyan Chand, whose legendary sporting skills did wonders for Indian hockey,” he tweeted.

Modi said India is blessed with immense sporting talent. and to harness this potential, a portal was launched by the Sports Ministry.

“The #NationalSportsTalentSearchPortal gives essential direction and support to youngsters to pursue their sporting aspirations and shine,” he said.

Here are the others who have also paid their tributes to the legendary hockey player on National Sports Day: