The National Sports Day is
celebrated on 29 August, on the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan
Chand, who is regarded as nation's greatest hockey player of all time.
Different countries celebrate
their National Sports Day on different dates according to their history and
dates which have been declared by their Sports Committee. National Sports Day
in India is celebrated with great enthusiasm and vigor on 29 August every year.
People of all age groups participate in sports like marathon, kabaddi,
basketball, hockey etc. This day not only serves as entertainment for the
people but also creates awareness about the role of sports in a person's life.
History
The history of National Sports Day
of India is associated with 29 August 1905 when a boy named Dhyanchand was born
in a family in Allahabad district of Uttar Pradesh. He is considered as one of
the greatest hockey players in the history of the game. He earned three Olympic
gold medals in hockey in 1928, 1932 and 1936. He was called a "wizard of
hockey" for his mastery of ball control.
Importance
It is not only about celebrating
this day but it is about celebrating the spirit of games and sports across the
country. "Utsav" means highlighting the importance of this day and
attracting public attention towards sports. Such days recognize youth, provide
employment and create awareness about the performance of Indian players in
various competitions.
Sports fans of the country praise
the work of all the various players and this day is celebrated with great
excitement in memory of all those greatest players.
Observance
A special prize distribution ceremony
of Indian sportspersons is held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Famous
sports-related awards like Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and
Dronacharya Award are given by the President of India to the best performing
sportspersons during a year. The Dhyanchand Award is the highest award for
lifetime achievement in sports in India.
National Sports Day Quotes
"Your dreams are what define
your individuality. They have the power to give you wings and make you fly
high". –PV Sindhu
”Never say never because limits,
like fear, are often just an illusion.”- Michael Jordan
“When people throw stones at you, you turn them into milestone”- Sachin Tendulkar