The nation came together in a spectacular display of unity and pride as the Centenary Celebrations of Indian Hockey concluded successfully at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi today. The event marked 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey — a journey that has defined India’s sporting identity across generations.

The grand celebration was graced by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, among several dignitaries, sports administrators, and former Olympians.

Over 1,400 matches were held across 550 districts nationwide as part of the centenary festivities, symbolising the sport’s reach and emotional connect with millions of Indians. The main event in New Delhi began at 8:30 AM with a ceremonial opening, followed by a series of memorable moments that celebrated the sport’s rich legacy and its bright future.

A 30-minute exhibition match between the Union Ministers’ XI and Hockey India’s Mixed XI (Men & Women) captivated the audience. The match stood as a symbolic representation of gender equality, teamwork, and inclusivity, with several national-level players showcasing their skill and spirit on the field.

The highlight of the event was the felicitation of hockey legends who have contributed immensely to India’s hockey glory over the decades. Their presence was met with thunderous applause from the packed stands, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the icons who brought honour to the tricolour.

In a significant moment of the day, the official commemorative volume “100 Years of Indian Hockey” was released. The publication chronicles India’s illustrious hockey journey—from its early triumphs under the British Raj and golden Olympic era to the resurgence of Indian hockey in the modern era.

Complementing the ceremony was a large-scale photo exhibition at the stadium, taking visitors through a visual chronicle of India’s unmatched achievements in world hockey. The exhibition featured rare archival photographs, memorabilia, and iconic moments, offering a nostalgic yet inspiring glimpse into the nation’s century-long hockey saga.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mandaviya lauded Hockey India for its efforts in nurturing talent and preserving the sport’s heritage. Kiren Rijiju emphasised the importance of youth participation and grassroots development, while Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted Tamil Nadu’s contribution to the sport and reaffirmed his state’s commitment to supporting national sporting excellence.

As the celebrations concluded with the national anthem echoing through the historic stadium, the event left an indelible mark on India’s sporting consciousness — reaffirming that hockey is not just a game, but an emotion that unites the nation.

India, the most successful hockey nation in the world with eight Olympic gold medals and 13 Olympic podium finishes, stands poised to carry forward this proud legacy into its next century with renewed passion and promise.

The nation came together in a spectacular display of unity and pride as the Centenary Celebrations of Indian Hockey concluded successfully at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi today. The event marked 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey — a journey that has defined India’s sporting identity across generations.

The grand celebration was graced by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, among several dignitaries, sports administrators, and former Olympians.

Over 1,400 matches were held across 550 districts nationwide as part of the centenary festivities, symbolising the sport’s reach and emotional connect with millions of Indians. The main event in New Delhi began at 8:30 AM with a ceremonial opening, followed by a series of memorable moments that celebrated the sport’s rich legacy and its bright future.

A 30-minute exhibition match between the Union Ministers’ XI and Hockey India’s Mixed XI (Men & Women) captivated the audience. The match stood as a symbolic representation of gender equality, teamwork, and inclusivity, with several national-level players showcasing their skill and spirit on the field.

The highlight of the event was the felicitation of hockey legends who have contributed immensely to India’s hockey glory over the decades. Their presence was met with thunderous applause from the packed stands, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the icons who brought honour to the tricolour.

In a significant moment of the day, the official commemorative volume “100 Years of Indian Hockey” was released. The publication chronicles India’s illustrious hockey journey—from its early triumphs under the British Raj and golden Olympic era to the resurgence of Indian hockey in the modern era.

Complementing the ceremony was a large-scale photo exhibition at the stadium, taking visitors through a visual chronicle of India’s unmatched achievements in world hockey. The exhibition featured rare archival photographs, memorabilia, and iconic moments, offering a nostalgic yet inspiring glimpse into the nation’s century-long hockey saga.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mandaviya lauded Hockey India for its efforts in nurturing talent and preserving the sport’s heritage. Kiren Rijiju emphasised the importance of youth participation and grassroots development, while Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted Tamil Nadu’s contribution to the sport and reaffirmed his state’s commitment to supporting national sporting excellence.

As the celebrations concluded with the national anthem echoing through the historic stadium, the event left an indelible mark on India’s sporting consciousness — reaffirming that hockey is not just a game, but an emotion that unites the nation.

India, the most successful hockey nation in the world with eight Olympic gold medals and 13 Olympic podium finishes, stands poised to carry forward this proud legacy into its next century with renewed passion and promise.