New Delhi – Hockey India is set to launch its centenary celebrations – marking 100 years of Indian hockey – on November 7 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. Organised in association with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the event will kick off a series of initiatives celebrating the sport’s illustrious past while laying the groundwork for its future growth.
A Legacy Carved in Glory
Indian hockey has long been synonymous with excellence. Since the formation of the Indian Hockey Federation in 1925, the country has dominated international hockey, winning eight Olympic gold medals, one silver, four bronze, and a Hockey World Cup title. The centenary celebrations are a tribute to the legends who shaped this glorious legacy, from Major Dhyan Chand to modern stars, and aim to inspire a new generation of hockey enthusiasts.
The official centenary logo, unveiled recently in New Delhi, symbolises 100 years of hockey heritage, unity, and sporting excellence. Featuring the iconic hockey stick intertwined with the Indian tricolour, it reflects both the sport’s illustrious past and the aspirations for its future.
The Modern Revival of Indian Hockey
After years of fluctuating performances, Indian hockey has experienced a remarkable resurgence. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics ended a 41-year medal drought in men’s hockey with a bronze medal, followed by another bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics. India’s victory at the Asia Cup further showcased its renewed dominance in the continental arena. Strong performances in the FIH Hockey Pro League and other major tournaments highlight the depth and talent of the current team.
Rising stars like Harmanpreet Singh, Gurjant Singh, and PR Sreejesh have blended with experienced campaigners to create a modern team that combines skill, fitness, and tactical innovation—signalling a bright future for Indian hockey.
Centenary Celebrations: Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The launch event in New Delhi will be complemented by simultaneous grassroots activities across over 550 districts, with more than 36,000 players participating in 1,400 matches. Organisers aim to set a Guinness World Record for the largest number of hockey matches played in a single day.
A key highlight will be a 30-minute exhibition match featuring current stars and hockey legends such as Zafar Iqbal, Jagbir Singh, Dilip Tirkey, and Ashok Kumar, celebrating the sport’s rich legacy across generations.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, said,
“As India celebrates 100 years of hockey, we honour a century of pride, perseverance, and national glory. This milestone is an occasion to remember our heroes and to draw inspiration from their journey. Hockey is more than just a sport for India—it is part of our identity and collective spirit.”
Hockey India President, Dr. Dilip Tirkey, added,
“Celebrating 100 years of Indian hockey is a deeply emotional and proud moment for all of us. This milestone honours our glorious past while inspiring a new generation to carry the legacy forward. Our focus is on strengthening the game from the grassroots and preparing our teams to reach the pinnacle of world hockey once again.”
Looking Ahead
The centenary is not just a celebration of the past—it is a renewed vision for the future of Indian hockey. With a rich legacy, a rising generation of talented players, and nationwide initiatives to promote the sport, India is poised to continue its journey as a global hockey powerhouse, inspiring millions across the country.
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