PM Modi Salutes Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day

New Delhi, August 29, 2026 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday marked National Sports Day by greeting sports enthusiasts across India and remembering hockey icon Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary. His message highlighted the lasting influence of sporting excellence and the dedication of athletes in strengthening India’s sporting identity. “To every sports lover…your dedication, passion and determination make everyone proud. We also pay homage to the legendary Major Dhyan Chand Ji, whose brilliance inspires generations. NationalSportsDay,” PM Modi posted on X. Modi also recalled Dhyan Chand’s association with India’s historic hockey tour of New Zealand 100 years ago. Speaking during the Khelo India Dialogue, he said the tour played an important role in the sporting ties between the two nations. “National Sports Day is also an occasion to remember Major Dhyan Chand. A hundred years ago, India’s hockey team toured New Zealand, and Dhyan Chand ji was part of that tour. That tour became the foundation for completing 100 years of sports relations between India and New Zealand,” he said. “A few days ago, when I visited New Zealand, I remembered him there as well. Major Dhyan Chand ji laid the foundation for these ties, and today India continues to work towards strengthening and enriching those relations,” PM Modi added. He also underlined the wider impact of an athlete’s success, noting that sporting achievements can raise the standing of their families, educational institutions and regions. “When a sportsperson succeeds, that success is not theirs alone. Their success builds the identity and enhances the prestige of their family. It also raises the reputation of the school or college they studied at, and strengthens the identity of their district and state,” PM Modi said. “Every district has the potential to shine on the world’s sports map,” he added. Observed annually on August 29, National Sports Day honours Major Dhyan Chand and celebrates the contribution of athletes who continue to bring recognition to India through sport.