New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan extended their greetings on National Sports Day on Saturday, highlighting the dedication of athletes and the valuable life lessons that sport offers to young people.
Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, whose birth anniversary is observed as National Sports Day in India. He praised sportspersons and sports enthusiasts for their passion, commitment and determination, saying their efforts continue to inspire the country.
Modi also remembered Major Dhyan Chand’s extraordinary contribution to Indian hockey and described his sporting brilliance as an inspiration for generations.
Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also used the occasion to encourage more young people to participate in sports. He emphasised that sporting success is not limited to winning medals or matches, but also involves developing qualities that help people deal with challenges in everyday life.
Dhawan highlighted perseverance, hard work and the ability to recover from setbacks as some of the important lessons learned through sport. He called for greater participation among youngsters and encouraged them to make sports a regular part of their lives.
National Sports Day is observed across India every year on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of the country’s most celebrated hockey players. The occasion promotes the importance of physical activity, fitness, discipline, teamwork and sporting excellence.
The day is marked by schools, colleges, sports organisations and communities through various activities aimed at encouraging participation in sports. It also provides an opportunity to recognise athletes, coaches and others who contribute to India’s sporting ecosystem.
With growing emphasis on fitness and grassroots sports, National Sports Day serves as a reminder of the role athletics can play in building confidence, discipline and resilience among the younger generation.
