National Sports Day in India is celebrated on August 29th every year. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, who is considered one of the greatest field hockey players in the history of the sport. Major Dhyan Chand’s exceptional skills and achievements in hockey have earned him recognition as a legendary figure in Indian and international sports.
On this day, various events and activities are organized across the country to promote sports and physical fitness. The President of India usually presents the National Sports Awards, including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and Dhyan Chand Award, to honor exceptional athletes, coaches, and contributors to Indian sports.
The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award is the highest sporting honor in India and is awarded to athletes who have shown outstanding performance and achievements in their respective sports disciplines. The Arjuna Award is given to recognize consistent excellence and outstanding achievements in sports, while the Dronacharya Award is bestowed upon coaches for their significant contribution to sports development. The Dhyan Chand Award is given to honor lifetime achievement in sports.
Apart from the award ceremonies, National Sports Day is a day to encourage people of all ages to engage in physical activities, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and develop an interest in sports. Sporting events, exhibitions, workshops, and seminars are often organized to promote the importance of sports in individual and community well-being.