100 years of Indian Hockey

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports has announced the centenary celebrations of Indian Hockey, to be held on November 7, 2025, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. The event marks a century of excellence, legacy, and pride in India’s national sport.

What It Is

Hockey, India’s national game of pride, embodies teamwork, discipline, and unity. Played with sticks and a hard ball, it is one of the oldest field sports and holds immense cultural and emotional significance for the nation.

Origin and Global Roots

• The origins of hockey can be traced back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt, while the modern form emerged in 18th-century England.

• The sport reached India in the 1850s during British rule, quickly gaining popularity due to its simple rules and open-field play.

• The first hockey club in India was established in Calcutta in 1855, marking the beginning of organized hockey in the country.

Historical Journey in India

• 1925: Establishment of the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF), soon after the creation of the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

• 1926: India’s first international tour to New Zealand — winning 18 of 21 matches — introduced the world to Dhyan Chand, the “Wizard of Hockey.”

• 1928–1956: India’s golden era — six consecutive Olympic gold medals, an unprecedented record in world sport.

• 1964 & 1980: India secured two more Olympic golds, reaffirming its dominance.

• 1975: India lifted its only Hockey World Cup, held in Kuala Lumpur.

• Post-2000 Revival: With podium finishes at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, and Asian Games Gold 2023, Indian hockey regained its global stature.

Achievements and Legacy

• 8 Olympic Golds, 13 Olympic podium finishes, and 1 World Cup title.

• Legendary players such as Dhyan Chand, Balbir Singh Sr, Dhanraj Pillay, and Harmanpreet Singh became international icons.

• Women’s hockey rose to prominence with Commonwealth Gold (2002) and a 4th-place finish at Tokyo 2020.

• Today, India ranks among the top five hockey nations globally and remains a strong contender in FIH Pro League and World Cup tournaments.

Significance

• National Identity: Hockey symbolizes postcolonial pride and unity, binding India’s diverse regions through sport.

• Cultural Heritage: It reflects resilience, teamwork, and excellence, values deeply rooted in India’s ethos.

• Women Empowerment: The rise of women’s hockey under initiatives like ASMITA Leagues promotes inclusivity and gender equality in sports.