Honoring Major Dhyan Chand: The Hockey Wizard on His Birth Anniversary
By Amit Kumar
Major Dhyan Chand, born on August 29, 1905, in Allahabad, India, is widely regarded as one of the
greatest field hockey players in history. Known as “The Wizard of Hockey,” Chand’s extraordinary skill
in ball control and goal-scoring led India to dominate international hockey during his career. His
exceptional contributions gave India Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936, firmly
establishing India’s supremacy in the sport during that era.
Dhyan Chand joined the British Indian Army in 1922, where his hockey career flourished. He quickly
gained recognition during the 1926 Indian Army team tour in New Zealand. His Olympic debut in
1928 was remarkable, scoring 14 goals and helping India secure its first Olympic gold medal in
hockey. Chand continued his dominance at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, scoring eight goals in the
final against the USA, which India won 24-1, a world record margin. He captained the Indian team to
victory in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, defeating Germany 8-1 in the final, where he personally scored
three goals.
Over his international career spanning from 1926 to 1949, Major Dhyan Chand scored an estimated
570 goals in 185 matches, with more than 1,000 goals including domestic games. He was renowned
not just for his skill but also for his humility and sportsmanship.
For his services to Indian sports, India honored Dhyan Chand with the Padma Bhushan, the country’s
third-highest civilian award, in 1956. His birth anniversary, August 29, is celebrated as National Sports
Day in India, promoting sports activities nationwide and recognizing athletes’ achievements.
Furthermore, India’s highest sporting honor, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, is named in
his honor, commemorating his legacy.
Dhyan Chand’s influence on hockey and Indian sports remains profound, inspiring generations of
athletes across the country and beyond to excel with dedication and humility. His life and
achievements continue to be celebrated as a symbol of sporting excellence in India.