When is National Sports Day celebrated in India?

On August 29th, India observes National Sports Day annually. On this day, hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, dubbed the "Wizard of Hockey" for his incredible skills on the rink, celebrates his birth anniversary. Major Dhyan Chand is regarded as a significant figure in Indian sports history due to his numerous achievements and contributions to the sport, which include three gold medals in hockey at the Olympics.

States that host a variety of athletic events and seminars to raise awareness of the value of sports and physical activity in life include Punjab, Karnataka, Haryana, and others. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2018 announcement of the Khelo India movement was one of the many sports initiatives the government has launched on this day over the years. 

However, there's more. On National Sports Day, the country also honours its athletes with awards like the Dronacharya Award, the Arjuna Award, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (previously known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna), and the Dhyan Chand Award. 

The President of India uses this day to present these national sports awards at a special ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

National Sports Day's significance in India   
Honouring and celebrating the achievements of Indian athletes who have excelled at the national and international levels in a range of sports is the purpose of Celebrating Athletic Excellence. It honours their dedication, diligence, and exceptional work. 

Honouring Major Dhyan Chand: National Sports Day is observed on the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, one of India's greatest hockey players. It pays tribute to his legendary status and his outstanding contributions to Indian sports. 

Promotion of Sports Culture: The day promotes sports and physical activity as a part of Indian culture. It inspires people, especially the youth, to prioritise fitness, lead active lifestyles, and engage in sports. 

Motivating Young Athletes: By showcasing the achievements of exceptional athletes, National Sports Day 2024 motivates young athletes. It encourages kids to set goals, play sports, and pursue success in their chosen industries. 

Raising Awareness: The purpose of the day is to highlight the importance of sports for general health and wellbeing. It raises awareness about the value of sports in preventing lifestyle-related health conditions and encourages both physical and mental fitness. 

 

Theme for National Sports Day in 2024  
"Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies" is the theme for National Sports Day in India in 2024. This theme emphasises the unifying, understanding-fostering, and community-building effects that sports can have. Sports promote harmony, cooperation, and respect, all of which help to dissolve social barriers. People from all backgrounds can connect and support one another through sports participation, which promotes inclusivity and peace.