National Sports Day 2024: When is Sports Day? Know date, theme, history, significance, celebration, wishes, quotes and more

National Sports Day, observed annually on August 29, is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the spirit of sports in India. This day not only recognises the achievements of athletes but also highlights the importance of staying active and healthy. It¡¯s a day to remember the incredible contributions of Major Dhyan Chand, a legendary hockey player whose skills and dedication have inspired generations. National Sports Day is more than just a celebration; it¡¯s a reminder of how sports enrich our lives and bring us closer as a community.

When is National Sports Day 2024?

Every year, India celebrates National Sports Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand Singh. In 2024, National Sports Day will be observed on Thursday, August 29, just like every year.

National Sports Day 2024 Theme

The theme for National Sports Day 2024 has not yet been announced. Last year's theme was "Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society." Stay tuned for updates on this year's theme as it will be revealed closer to the date.

Significance of National Sports Day

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The primary goal of National Sports Day is to encourage sports participation among the youth of India. By choosing August 29, the day not only commemorates Major Dhyan Chand's birthday but also highlights his exceptional contributions to hockey. Major Dhyan Chand, born in 1905, is remembered for his extraordinary skills and achievements in the sport.

On this day, the National Sports Awards Ceremony is held, where athletes, teams, and individuals are honoured for their outstanding achievements in sports. This celebration also aims to raise awareness about the importance of sports and physical fitness in everyday life.

History of National Sports Day

National Sports Day was officially established by the Government of India in 2012, marking August 29 as a day to recognise sports excellence. The choice of this date pays tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, known as the 'Wizard of Hockey' for his remarkable prowess on the field. Major Dhyan Chand was born on August 29, 1905, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. His illustrious career spanned from 1926 to 1948, during which he represented India in 185 matches and scored over 400 goals. His stellar performance led India to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936.

Celebration of National Sports Day

National Sports Day is marked by the presentation of various awards to celebrate the achievements of both individuals and teams. The awards ceremony is held at the Presidential Palace, where the President of India presents prestigious honours such as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (formerly the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna), the Arjuna Award, and the Dronacharya Award.

On this day, people across the country participate in and organize sports events. You can join in by forming teams with friends or taking part in school activities that celebrate National Sports Day.

National Sports Awards

The National Sports Awards, given out by the central government, recognize the achievements of athletes in their respective sports. These awards are presented on National Sports Day.

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

The highest honour in sports, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (formerly the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna), is given to the top athlete, usually an Olympic medalist, during Olympic years.

Arjuna Award

The Arjuna Award celebrates athletes' achievements from the past seasons, acknowledging their hard work and success.

Dronacharya Award

This award is given to the best coaches in India, including foreign coaches who have helped develop sports in the country.

Dhyan Chand Award

The Dhyan Chand Award honours an athlete for their lifetime contributions to their sport.

Individual National Sports Federations (NSFs) and athletes can nominate themselves or others for these awards. A special committee appointed by the sports ministry reviews the nominations and recommends awardees to the government.

The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award was established in 1991, with the first award going to Grand Master Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world chess champion. The Arjuna Award is the oldest, first given out in 1961. The Dronacharya Award was introduced in 1985. The Dhyan Chand Award is the newest, with the first awards presented in 2002 to Shahuraj Birajdar (boxing), Ashok Diwan (hockey), and Aparna Ghosh (basketball).

National Sports Day wishes, messages and quotes:

As National Sports Day approaches, consider sharing your good wishes and messages to inspire others. Celebrate the spirit of sports and fitness by sending heartfelt messages to friends and family, encouraging them to embrace an active lifestyle.

- May this National Sports Day bring out the champion in you, both on and off the field.

- As we celebrate National Sports Day, here's to pushing your limits and achieving new milestones in your sporting journey.

- Sports teach us invaluable lessons about teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. Happy National Sports Day 2024!

- On this National Sports Day, let's honour the coaches and mentors who shape athletes into leaders of tomorrow.

- ¡°It is not my country¡¯s duty to push me ahead. It is my duty to push my country ahead.¡± - Major Dhyan Chand

- ¡°In the long run, I believe that honesty is definitely the best policy. One can get away by being dishonest for a short team, but ultimately, honesty is what pays.¡± - Kapil Dev

- ¡°No one lives here forever! This Land belongs to the Lord! So make the most of the time you spend here! You have no liability, but just responsibility, for those who are and will follow their journey on this planet .¡± - Sushil Kumar

- ¡°Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.¡± ¨C Michael Jordan

National Sports Day 2024 is a significant occasion to honour Major Dhyan Chand and promote the values of sportsmanship and physical fitness. Mark your calendars for August 29 and take part in the celebrations that highlight the importance of sports in our lives.

National Sports Day FAQs:

Q: When is National Sports Day?

National Sports Day is celebrated every year in India on August 29.

Q: Why do we celebrate National Sports Day?

We celebrate National Sports Day to mark the birth anniversary of the famous hockey player Dhyan Chand.

Q: When was National Sports Day first observed in India?

National Sports Day was first observed in India in 2012.

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