National Sports Day 2024: Here's how cricketers reacted to 12th Sports Day

August 29 marks the birth anniversary of Hockey legend, Major Dhyan Chand. The Indian government in 2012 coined the day as National Sports Day, in honour of the iconic sportsman and to highlight the importance of physical activity as well as the importance of sports in individuals. Dhyan Chand was widely regarded as ‘The Wizard of Hockey.' Born on August 29, 1905, he was an integral part of India's three Olympic gold medal wins in 1928, 1932, and 1936, respectively.

The stalwart’s prowess with the hockey stick is evident in the fact that he represented India in 185 games, and scored a monumental 400 goals. He started his career in 1926 and ended a 32-year-long on-field association with hockey in 1948.  

Apart from celebrating the day through various events, the President of India presents the National Sports Awards, including the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and Major Dhyan Chand Award.

The National Sports Day in India is celebrated with an annual theme and this year’s theme is yet to be announced. However, the University Grant Commission stresses the theme of “Sports for Unity." The last year’s theme was “Sports as an enabler to an inclusive and fit society.” The point of celebrating the day rooted in Dhyan Chand is to reflect on the importance of sports in our lives, promote physical fitness, and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Here's how the cricketers reacted on National Sports Day: