New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) A century ago, on November 7, 1925, Indian hockey became affiliated with the FIH. What ensued was not just the emergence of a sport, but the genesis of national pride. Just three years later, the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics witnessed a momentous gold medal that proclaimed India as a hockey powerhouse.

In the years that followed, the tricolour soared on the global stage, securing eight Olympic golds—the highest by any nation in hockey history—alongside one silver and four bronze medals.

This journey has been marked by brilliance, challenges, and remarkable comebacks. The golden period from 1928 to 1959 shaped India’s sporting identity; the 1980s and 90s tested that legacy; and then came the revival, highlighted by the iconic bronze at Tokyo 2020 and reaffirmed at Paris 2024 with another podium finish. The victory in the 1975 World Cup, along with a rich collection of Asian Games medals for both men and women, ensures that hockey remains intricately woven into the nation’s sporting fabric.

On November 7, 2025, India will pause to commemorate this extraordinary century. The celebration's heart will resonate at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, where the day will kick off with a captivating exhibition match featuring the Honourable Sports Minister's XI against Hockey India's Mixed XI, uniting men and women on a single field—symbolizing the inclusive future of the sport. Hockey legends from various eras will be honored, and the commemorative publication “100 Years of Indian Hockey” will be launched alongside a compelling photo exhibition that takes spectators through iconic milestones—from Amsterdam to Paris, from the artistry of Dhyan Chand to the determination of modern champions.

However, the festivities will not be restricted to one venue. They will resonate across over 500 districts, where more than 1,000 matches and 36,000 players—schoolchildren, grassroots aspirants, veterans, and community teams—will take to the field together. It will be a festival of sticks and cheers, a celebration of memory and promise—a nationwide tribute to a game that has defined India and continues to ignite aspirations.

Hockey India president Dr. Dilip Tirkey remarked, “This centenary reflects the essence of Indian hockey—its heroes, its resilience, and its beautiful resurgence. From our golden legends to today’s young stars, each step of this journey has molded our nation’s sporting identity. As we celebrate 100 years, we honor our past and set ambitious goals for the future generations.”

Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “Hockey has always belonged to the people of India, and this celebration is for every fan, every player, every coach who maintained the spirit alive. As we celebrate across more than 500 districts, we are not only recalling history—we are constructing the next century of Indian hockey together.”

As the country counts down to this milestone, stadiums, schools, and fields nationwide are gearing up for a celebration rich in nostalgia, pride, and renewed vigor. A century completed—and a new era poised to commence.