Xtra Time Web Desk: Two-time Olympic gold medalist Keshav Dutt passed away in Kolkata on Wednesday. He was 96 years old. Datt was part of India’s golden era in hockey. He was a formidable halfback and was part of Independent India’s historic feat at the 1948 where they beat home team Great Britain 4-0 in the Final at the Wembley Stadium in London. Before the 1948 Olympics, Datt had toured toured East Africa under the leadership of the great hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand in 1947.
Datt, born on 29 December 1925 in Lahore, Pakistan, was also part of the Indian team at 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki where they beat the home team Netherlands 6-1 in the Final to become the Olympic Champions for the fifth consecutive time.
Having moved to Calcutta in 1950, Datt also represented Mohun Bagan – the most famous Indian club of that time in multiple sports. He was awarded Hockey Bengal’s Major Dhyan Chand lifetime achievement award in 2020. He was also conferred with Mohun Bagan Ratna and Bharat Gaurav by East Bengal club.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banarjee offered her condolences following the passing away of the hockey legend. She tweeted, “The world of hockey lost one of its true legends today. Saddened at the passing away of Keshav Datt. He was a double Olympic gold medal winner, 1948 and 1952. A champion of India and Bengal. Condolences to his family and friends.”
Indian tennis legend Leander Paes too paid tribute to late Keshuv Dutt. He tweeted, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Uncle Keshav. A very dear family friend and a hero I looked up to growing up. He always encouraged me. My deepest condolences to his family!”