How Will India Celebrate Hockey’s Centennial and the World Cup Return?
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Synopsis
As Indian hockey approaches its centennial celebration in 2025, a new tribute song and the upcoming Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu promise to reignite the nation’s passion for the sport. Discover how this milestone reflects India’s dedication to hockey and its cultural significance on the global stage.
Key Takeaways
- India celebrates 100 years of hockey in 2025.
- Tribute song 'India’s World Cup' highlights the unity and pride of Indian hockey.
- The Men’s Junior World Cup will feature a record 24 teams in Tamil Nadu.
- Indian hockey has a rich history of success and cultural impact.
- 2025 will reaffirm India’s passion for hockey on a global stage.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25 (IANS) As Indian hockey gears up to celebrate a remarkable milestone in 2025, the sport is poised for a grand celebration both on and off the field. The nation will honor 100 years of Indian hockey on November 7, 2025, as Tamil Nadu prepares to host the Men’s FIH Hockey Junior World Cup in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10, 2025.
To commemorate this centennial, Prof. Vasisht, a distinguished historian and ardent hockey fan from Kerala, has crafted a tribute song entitled “India’s World Cup”.
Prof. Vasisht, who previously led the History Department at Malabar Christian College in Kozhikode, wrote the Tamil lyrics to honor the state playing host.
The song was performed by Silu Fathina, one of his former students, who also provided a fresh melody for the piece.
This vibrant track celebrates India’s unity and sporting spirit, resonating with the lines: “This is India’s World Cup, This is Tamil Nadu’s World Cup, This is Hockey’s World Cup, This is Chennai’s and Madurai’s World Cup — The World Cup of Victory.”
Previously, Prof. Vasisht composed “Magicians of Kuala Lumpur” to pay tribute to the Indian team that won the 1975 Hockey World Cup, emphasizing the sport’s role in promoting cultural harmony across the nation.
India achieved victory in the Hockey World Cup in 1975, defeating Pakistan 2-1 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The 14th edition of the Men’s Junior World Cup will feature a record 24 teams competing for glory — the largest participation in the tournament’s history. India, which has previously hosted the event in New Delhi (2013), Lucknow (2016), and Bhubaneswar (2021), is considered a strong contender, having won the trophy in 2016 and finished third on three occasions.
For Indian hockey, 2025 will not merely be a year of reflection but a reaffirmation of the nation’s enduring enthusiasm and ascending position in the sport globally.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize that the celebration of 100 years of Indian hockey is more than a sporting event; it’s a testament to our nation’s rich heritage and unity. The upcoming Junior World Cup and the tribute song reflect our commitment to fostering sportsmanship and cultural pride on a global platform.
NationPress
25/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the 2025 Hockey Centennial?
The 2025 Hockey Centennial marks 100 years of Indian hockey, celebrating its rich history and contributions to the sport globally.
Who composed the tribute song for the centenary?
Prof. Vasisht, a historian and hockey enthusiast from Kerala, composed the tribute song titled 'India’s World Cup' to honor the occasion.
Where will the Men’s FIH Hockey Junior World Cup be held?
The Men’s FIH Hockey Junior World Cup will be hosted in Tamil Nadu, specifically in Chennai and Madurai, from November 28 to December 10, 2025.
How many teams will participate in the upcoming Junior World Cup?
A record 24 teams will compete in the 14th edition of the Men’s Junior World Cup, making it the largest participation in the tournament's history.
What was India's achievement in the 1975 Hockey World Cup?
India won the 1975 Hockey World Cup by defeating Pakistan 2-1 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
