India enthusiastically observes National Sports Day on August 29th, with the added significance of the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 commencing in Rajgir, Bihar. The day is a special tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, the iconic hockey player whose birthday is celebrated on this day. Major Dhyan Chand, known as the ‘Wizard of Hockey,’ secured three Olympic gold medals for India in 1928, 1932, and 1936. In recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments, National Sports Day was established in 2012. National Sports Day is not just a commemoration; it also promotes the importance of sports and fitness in daily life. The day involves the presentation of National Sports Awards, honoring exceptional athletes and coaches. This year’s event is organized under the ‘Fit India Mission’ by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The ‘Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein’ campaign, running from August 29th to 31st, aims to motivate people to incorporate at least an hour of physical activity into their daily schedules. The Ministry’s official statement underlines the initiative’s goal to educate people about how 60 minutes of daily physical activity can help prevent lifestyle diseases.
