August 28, 2025

Every year on August 29, India bursts with energy as it marks National Sports Day. This vibrant day celebrates not just sports but the spirit of teamwork and fitness. At the center of this celebration is Major Dhyan Chand, known as the 'Hockey Wizard,' whose magic on the field left the world stunned. In 2025, National Sports Day falls on Friday, August 29, the birth anniversary of Dhyan Chand, who won Olympic hockey gold three times for India – in 1928, 1932, and 1936. He is remembered as one of the greatest hockey players ever. The theme for 2025 is a powerful one: "Sport to Promote Peaceful and Inclusive Societies." It shows how sports can smash barriers and unite people beyond religion, region, or background. Sports become a bridge to peace and harmony. Adding more fun, the Fit India Mission runs a three-day event from August 29 to 31 called "Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main" (One Hour on the Playground). This campaign asks everyone to spend at least one hour daily playing outside and getting active. It’s a call to move, jump, and enjoy the joy of sports! National Sports Day began to honor the legendary Dhyan Chand (1905–1979), whose skill earned him the name 'Hockey Wizard.' He inspired an entire nation and laid India’s strong sporting roots. To keep his spirit alive, the government declared his birthday as National Sports Day. This day also presents big awards like the Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, and more, all given by the President of India to celebrate sporting heroes. Across the country, schools, colleges, and sports groups hold matches, workshops, and challenges, all to boost fitness and sports love. The celebrations nurture a dream of making India a global sports force. This year, from August 29 to 31, expect a festival of sports and fitness. Whether you are a pro athlete or just love to play, National Sports Day invites you to come out, move your body, and feel the thrill of sport uniting us all. After all, as the Olympic and Paralympic values say — excellence, friendship, courage, equality, and respect — sport shows the best in us!

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Tags: National sports day, Major dhyan chand, Fit india mission, Ek ghanta khel ke maidan main, Sportsmanship, 2025 theme,