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.
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.”
On #NationalSportsDay, I congratulate all sportspersons and sports enthusiasts who pursue sports with great vigour and passion.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2017
“I pay tributes to the exemplary Major Dhyan Chand, whose legendary sporting skills did wonders for Indian hockey,” he tweeted.
I pay tributes to the exemplary Major Dhyan Chand, whose legendary sporting skills did wonders for Indian hockey. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2017
Modi said India is blessed with immense sporting talent. and to harness this potential, a portal was launched by the Sports Ministry.
India is blessed with immense sporting talent. To harness this potential, a portal was launched by @IndiaSports. https://t.co/yOGTU3U59h
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2017
“The #NationalSportsTalentSearchPortal gives essential direction and support to youngsters to pursue their sporting aspirations and shine,” he said.
The #NationalSportsTalentSearchPortal gives essential direction & support to youngsters to pursue their sporting aspirations and shine. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2017
Here are the others who have also paid their tributes to the legendary hockey player on National Sports Day:
Tributes to the greatest hockey player of all times and India’s greatest sportsman, Major Dhyanchand on #NationalSportsDay . pic.twitter.com/MzYxMGPDtC
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 29, 2017
Tribute to the finest hockey player of all time, Dhyan Chand. #NationalSportsDay pic.twitter.com/GoQvWEBa4k — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) August 29, 2017
Every champion refused to give up when he or she was down. On #NationalSportsDay, I urge you all to chase your dreams & be the best. pic.twitter.com/gNo9ZcjT7X
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) August 29, 2017
Tributes to the legendary Major Dhyan Chand on #NationalSportsDay. Sports develop character, a never-say-die attitude & spirit of teamwork. pic.twitter.com/jR3AruL8fs
— Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) August 29, 2017
Happy #NationalSportsDay. My salute to dada Dhyan Chand Happy birthday jai hind. pic.twitter.com/e1rhv0eFsz
— Poonam Rani Malik 15 (@PoonamHockey) August 29, 2017
The Wizard of Indian Hockey – Dhyan Chand will never be forgotten. #NationalSportsDay
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) August 29, 2017