Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Aug 29: Hockey Bengal will organise its Annual Awards Ceremony 2026 in Kolkata on Saturday to mark National Sports Day and commemorate the 121st birth anniversary of legendary Indian hockey player Major Dhyan Chand.
The ceremony will recognise players, coaches, umpires, journalists and organisations for their contributions to the development and promotion of hockey in Bengal. The event is being held as part of Hockey Bengal's efforts to acknowledge those who have contributed to the sport both on and off the field.
National Sports Day is observed across India on August 29 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand. Born on August 29, 1905, Dhyan Chand was one of India's most celebrated hockey players and was part of the Indian teams that won Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932 and 1936.
The legendary forward, popularly known as the 'Hockey Wizard', played a central role in India's dominance of international hockey during the pre-Independence era. His exceptional ball control, goal-scoring ability and contribution to India's Olympic triumphs have made his birth anniversary a significant occasion for Indian sport.
The National Sports Day celebrations also provide an opportunity to recognise athletes and sporting institutions and encourage greater participation in sports across the country.
Hockey Bengal has a long association with the development of hockey in Kolkata and West Bengal. The organisation is also associated with the historic Beighton Cup, one of the world's oldest field hockey tournaments, which has been held in Kolkata since 1895.
The annual awards programme is expected to bring together members of Bengal's hockey fraternity and highlight the contribution of players, coaches, officials, journalists and organisations working to sustain and develop the sport in the state.
The ceremony also continues Hockey Bengal's tradition of using National Sports Day to celebrate the legacy of Major Dhyan Chand while recognising contemporary contributors to Bengal hockey. In previous years, the organisation has used the occasion to honour prominent figures associated with the sport, including legendary players.