Hockey’s Golden Era
New Delhi
Hockey India has begun a 50-day countdown leading to the centenary celebrations of Indian hockey on November 7. The milestone marks 100 years since the first national hockey body was formed in 1925. Details of the events will be shared later, but the focus will be on honoring the sport’s rich legacy, including India’s eight Olympic gold medals — the highest by any nation in hockey.
Former Olympian Gurbux Singh, India’s oldest living hockey legend who won gold in Tokyo 1964, reflected on the sport’s history. He recalled how India won its first Olympic gold in 1928, only three years after forming the hockey association. The golden run continued with victories in 1932 and 1936, during the Dhyan Chand era, when India dominated world hockey. Singh added that India might have won two more golds in 1940 and 1944 had the Games not been cancelled due to World War II.
He highlighted the nationalist spirit hockey inspired before Independence. Britain fielded its first hockey team in 1948, fearing defeat by India. When India beat them in London after Independence, it became a defining moment of national pride. Singh also shared how the 1936 Berlin Olympics team was funded by donations from royal families and citizens, who raised ₹50,000 to send players by ship.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said the centenary is an opportunity for young generations to learn the sport’s historic role in shaping India’s identity. He added that the celebrations will aim to relive the golden days of Indian hockey and inspire the future.
