New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) The Sports Authority of India and Hockey India commemorated a century of Indian hockey with a spectacular centenary celebration at the historic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi on Friday.

This remarkable event was attended by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister of Sports and Youth Services of Odisha, Suryabanshi Suraj, and President of FIH, Dato Tayyab Ikram, alongside other dignitaries, hockey legends, and national team members.

The occasion marked a century of sporting excellence, unity, and pride, celebrating the evolution of Indian hockey from its inception in 1925 to its modern resurgence.

Dr. Mandaviya shared his pride in being part of this historic event, stating, “The sport has undergone numerous phases, and through hockey at the Olympics, we demonstrated to the world what India can achieve in sports. With its rich legacy, Indian hockey is on the rise again, striving for another Olympic medal. Today, as the country celebrates with over 1,000 matches nationwide, the entire Bharat shares in this proud moment. The Government of India will steadfastly support our players and the sport in every possible manner. Congratulations to Hockey India, the athletes, coaches, and fans for being part of this extraordinary journey.”

Kiren Rijiju reflected on this historic day, noting, “I feel privileged to stand here among legends on this unique occasion. Indian hockey has had a long and inspiring journey. I commend Hockey India for honoring our greats alongside current stars, blending our rich history with a promising future. Kudos to everyone involved in this incredible journey.”

Tayyab Ikram, President of FIH, commented, “It’s an honor to be part of this significant milestone for Indian hockey. Today, we express gratitude to our legends, players, fans, and administrators who have shaped this journey. India has pioneered world hockey through a century of resilience and innovation. I thank the Government of India and Hockey India for their unwavering support. India’s resurgence in the Tokyo and Paris Olympics signifies its strength, and I am confident the next century will be even more illustrious for Indian hockey.”

An exhibition match between the Sports Minister’s XI, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, and the Hockey India XI, captained by Dr. Dilip Tirkey, set an exciting tone for the day. The match concluded with a 3–1 victory for the Sports Ministry XI, featuring goals from Beauty Dungdung, Salima Tete, and Krishna Pathak, while Manpreet Singh scored for the Hockey India XI.

Hockey India also recognized some of the sport's most distinguished icons for their enduring contributions, inspiring generations of players. Honored legends included Gurbux Singh, Harbinder Singh, Ajith Pal Singh, Ashok Kumar, B. P. Govinda, Aslam Sher Khan, Zafar Iqbal, Brigadier Harcharan Singh VSM, Vineet Kumar, Romeo James, Asunta Lakra, and Subhadra Pradhan.

Another highlight was the launch of the commemorative book “100 Years of Indian Hockey,” chronicling the sport’s journey through a century of triumphs, challenges, and revival. A special photo exhibition displayed archival photographs, Olympic moments, and memorabilia reflecting the evolution of the sport from the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics to the present day.

With Tamil Nadu preparing to host the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, the coveted trophy was showcased, initiating a 20-city trophy tour. Adding to the festivities, singer and composer Siddharth Mahadevan delivered energetic live performances, captivating attendees and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.

Extending the centenary spirit nationwide, a Nationwide Hockey Festival was organized in 500 districts, engaging over 36,000 players in more than 1,000 exhibition matches. The initiative united school athletes, veterans, and community teams, transforming the milestone into a genuine national celebration of the sport.

Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, expressed, “It’s an honor for me to be here at the very stadium where I attended my first camp and played my first significant tournament. Today pays tribute to those who laid the foundation for Indian hockey a century ago and every player who has brought glory to the nation. We must acknowledge all stakeholders working tirelessly to promote hockey, including the Government of India, which has offered tremendous support. I am confident that many more prideful moments await us in the coming years.”

Bholanath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, conveyed gratitude to all who made this milestone a reality, stating, “A special thanks to the Government of India for actualizing this celebration and to all the esteemed dignitaries present today. This moment belongs to the entire hockey community, and we are proud to celebrate it nationwide. I also extend my gratitude to our State Member Units for their unwavering support and contributions to advancing the sport.”