Govind Perumal: Remembering a Hockey Olympian on His Death Anniversary

By Amit Kumar

September 17 marks the death anniversary of Govind Perumal, a celebrated Indian field hockey player who brought immense pride to the nation with his Olympic victories. Born on September 25, 1925, Perumal was an integral part of the Indian hockey teams that won gold medals at the 1952 Helsinki and 1956 Melbourne Summer Olympics.

At the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, Perumal contributed to India’s dominant performance, where the national team won all three of its matches, defeating Great Britain, Austria, and Holland to secure India’s fifth consecutive Olympic gold in field hockey. This victory solidified India’s position as the premier force in international hockey during that era.

Four years later, at the Melbourne Olympics, Perumal again showcased his skills in a squad that exhibited exceptional prowess. The Indian team won all five matches. Their crowning moment was the hard-fought final against Pakistan, marking the first hockey encounter between these countries after independence. India emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, capturing their sixth consecutive gold medal in field hockey, a record in Olympic history.

Following his retirement from active play, Govind Perumal dedicated himself to nurturing future talent, training numerous bank teams and amateur clubs, thus contributing to the sport beyond his Olympic achievements.

Perumal passed away on September 17, 2002, at his residence in Nala Sopara, Thane district, Maharashtra. He died of a heart attack at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to Indian hockey.

Govind Perumal’s contributions to Indian hockey are remembered with respect and admiration. His role in securing India’s golden era in Olympic hockey remains a significant chapter in the country’s rich sporting history.