PM Narendra Modi pays rich tributes to Dhyan Chand on his birthday

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today paid rich tributes to legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary, saying his determination and dedication towards sports continues to inspire.

In his message on the National Sports Day, Modi saluted all the sportsmen and women who have been enhancing the pride of the Tricolour by their exemplary performance on the field.

"Our tributes to the legendary Major Dhyan Chand on National Sports Day. His determination & dedication towards sports continues to inspire," the Prime Minister said.

The birthday of Dhyan Chand, regarded as India's greatest hockey player, is celebrated as the National Sports Day.

Born on August 29, 1905, the player is remembered for his amazing goal scoring feats and extraordinary skills of ball control that earned him the title of 'The Wizard' of hockey.

Because of him, India once ruled the game, bagging Olympic Gold medals in 1928, 1932 and 1936.

Using the occasion, Modi congratulated the sportspersons honoured with the various National Sports Awards today, saying, "India is proud of them."