Every year on August 29, National Sports Day is observed to honor Major Dhyan Chand, the hockey whiz who helped India win gold at the Olympics in 1928, 1932, and 1936. Dhyan Chand is still regarded as one of the best hockey players in history and is known as the “Hockey Magician.”

“Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main” is the subject of the Fit India Mission’s three-day statewide sports and fitness program, which will take place from August 29 to August 31.

National Sports Day, which has been marked nationally since 2012 after being observed in 1995, has come to represent India’s dedication to athletic prowess, fitness, and health. The Fit India Movement’s 2019 start has further revolutionized fitness for the general public.

PM Modi sent a message on X while on a two-day trip to Japan. “Happy National Sports Day!” he wrote. We honor Major Dhyan Chand Ji on this momentous anniversary, whose brilliance continues to motivate future generations.

On Friday, National Sports Day, International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah honored hockey great Major Dhyan Chand by showcasing his accomplishments and encouraging everyone to work together to use sports to create a stronger, healthier country.

“On India’s National Sports Day, we honor Major Dhyan Chand, the genius whose illustrious accomplishments never cease to motivate us. “Let us unite and use sports to create a stronger and healthier nation as India continues its path to become a sporting superpower,” Shah wrote on X.

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar celebrated National Sports Day on X with a touching statement honoring Indian athletes from all states and disciplines, “On National Sports Day, I am honored to commemorate the tremendous advancements India has made in the realm of sports. Our sporting accomplishments today represent the diversity of our nation and its citizens rather than being restricted to just one or two high-profile sports.

Vijender Singh, a former Olympic boxer, sent his best wishes to athletes nationwide. Vijender recalled Dhyan Chand as “India’s first sporting hero,” stating that the hockey whiz had influenced generations with his tales and writings.

“I want to wish you all the very best on Major Dhyan Chand’s birth anniversary, which is also observed as our National Sports Day. Our first sporting hero and the person who taught us the true meaning of sports was Major Dhyan Chand. We read books and stories about him as children. I hope you have the finest day ever on this unique day for all athletes. I hope you put in a lot of effort and bring home a lot of medals for India.

Sakshi Malik, a former Olympic medalist, wished everyone a happy National Sports Day. To all of you, congratulations. Playing games teaches us how to work out in addition to keeping us in shape. You should all incorporate games into your daily lives. Stay fit and keep moving forward.”