Rich tribute paid to hockey wizard Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 29 2025: Joining the rest of the country, National Sports Day was celebrated widely in the State today to commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary Major Dhyan Chand, widely regarded as the greatest field hockey player of all time.

National Sports Day is celebrated annually on August 29 to emphasise the importance of sports and physical activities and serves to honour Major Dhyan Chand's legacy in Indian hockey.

Manipur University

Today, the Department of Physical Education and Sports Science (PESS), Manipur University, Canchipur, successfully organised the "Nationwide Celebration of Sports, Spirit & Unity on National Sports Day" at Dr Kamal Indoor Stadium, Manipur University, Canchipur.

The event was held in collaboration with the Fit India Campaign Committee, Fit India Club, and the National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell, Manipur University, under the national theme, "Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidaan Mein!".

The celebration was organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Prof N Lokendra Singh, ViceChancellor, MU; Prof Ch Ibohal Singh, Chairman, FICC & FIC and Dean of Students' Welfare, MU; Dr Ch Pradip Singh, Assistant Director of Sports, MU; and Prof L Thambal Singh, Head, Department of PESS.

The programme began with a floral tribute to the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, led by the dignitaries, followed by faculty members, research scholars, and students.

In his welcome address, Dr Laishram Santosh Singh, Programme Coordinator, NSS Cell, and FICC & FIC, MU, emphasized the critical role of youth participation in sports in shaping a healthy, disciplined, and forward-looking society.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof M Nodiyachand Singh stressed the importance of celebrating such occasions in a country like India, where a significant youth population holds immense untapped potential in sports.

He also highlighted Manipur's proud legacy of producing sportspersons who have brought national and international acclaim, asserting that such events serve to inspire and energize future generations.

Prof N Lokendra underlined the transformative power of sports in channelizing youthful energy toward building a peaceful and united society.

Prof Ch Ibohal reiterated the role of sports in holistic societal development while Dr Ch Pradip acknowledged Manipur's consistent contributions in the field of sports at national and international levels.

Prof L Thambal emphasized the unifying spirit of sports and its role in fostering discipline and community cohesion.

The programme concluded successfully with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr L Pungding, Department of PESS.

Meanwhile, Indian Red Cross Society, Imphal West District Branch and Department of PESS organised a voluntary blood donation camp at the varsity today as part of the celebration of National Sports Day.

The camp witnessed active participation from faculty members of PESS, members of IRCS, NSS volunteers, and students from various departments.

A total of 30 units of blood were donated durng the camp.

RIMS

The Department of Sports Medicine, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, celebrated National Sports Day 2025 today at the Sports Science Laboratory of the department with great enthusiasm and active participation.

The celebration was graced by dignitaries, including Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director, RIMS Imphal; Prof Laishram Rajesh Singh, Dean (Academics); Padma Shri awardee Oinam Bembem Devi; Arjuna awardee Laishram Sarita Devi and Dr Y Nandabir, former Professor, Sports Medicine.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Sunil Kumar noted that RIMS, one of the eight Sports Medicine centers in India, plays a vital role in supporting athletes.

He highlighted Manipur's sporting legacy and mentioned that this year's three-day celebration features events, talks, matches, and a cycle rally under the Fit India Movement.

Oinam Bembem and Laishram Sarita encouraged young athletes to remain disciplined and passionate, while also maintaining good health with proper medical support.

Appreciating the establishment of the dedicated Sports Medicine Department at RIMS, they acknowledged the facilities as commendable but stressed the need for further enhancement, especially for the benefit of the younger generation of athletes.

As part of the celebration, a video showcasing the departmental progress was presented, and a pledge was also taken to promote sports, health, and fitness.

Moreover, as part of the celebration under the Fit India Mission, a three-day programme comprising badminton, yoga, fitness talks, and a cycle rally was also inaugurated.

Herbert School

Herbert School celebrated National Sports Day today with great energy and excitement to honour the birth anniversary of the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand.

The programme began with a tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, highlighting his contributions to Indian hockey and his role in making India a global power.

Laishram Sarita Devi, Superintendent of Police (Sports) who is a renowned Indian boxer, an Arjuna awardee, a former national and world champion graced the function as the special guest.

Sarita Devi gave valuable advice to the students and shared her remarkable journey in the world of sports, highlighting the challenges she overcame with determination and resilience.

In his address, Dr K Nabachandra Singh, Principal of Herbert School motivated the students to actively participate in sports and fitness activities, reminding them that sports not only build stamina and strength but also shape character and leadership qualities.

The celebration was marked with dynamic performances showcasing the richness and diversity of martial arts and fitness including Thang-Ta, Taekwondo, Ta Khoushaba, Yoga and Muay Thai performed by the students of Class XI & XII .

CAU

A 3-day celebration of National Sports Day began today at the College of Agriculture (COA), Central Agricultural University (CAU), Iroisemba, Imphal to honour the legacy of Major Dhyan Chand and other iconic sports personalities of India.

The inaugural session was graced by Prof Brajendra Singh, Dean, COA; Prof Indira Sarangthem, Director of Instructions, CAU; faculty members, scientists, staff and students of the varsity.

On the first day, more than 100 enthusiastic students participated actively across various sports events including badminton, volleyball, sack race and spoon race.

Shiksha Vikash Samiti

The three-day "Sansad Khel Mahotsav 2025" was formally inaugurated today at Bal Vidya Mandir, Palace Compound, on the occasion of National Sports Day.

The Mahotsav was organised by Vidya Bharati, Shiksha Vikash Samiti Manipur in collaboration with Leishemba Sanajaoba, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha.

The inaugural function was graced by dignitaries, including Adhikarimayum Sarda Devi, president, BJP Manipur Pradesh; Laishram Jatra Singh, state executive member, RSS Manipur Prant; Prof Maibam Chourajit Singh, president, Shiksha Vikash Samiti Manipur; Arjuna awardee Laishram Sarita Devi and Leishemba Sanajaoba.

MUC

Manipur University of Culture (MUC) also celebrated National Sports Day today at its extension campus in Canchipur under the theme, "Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidaan Mein".

The event was conducted in collaboration with University Grants Commission, Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The celebration was graced by Leishemba Sanajaoba, MP, Rajya Sabha; Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh, Director, Youth Affairs & Sports; and Prof Paonam Gunindro, Vice Chancellor, MUC as dignitaries.

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