100 Years of Indian Hockey: Celebrating a Century of Pride, Perseverance, and Glory (1925–2025)

India marks a historic milestone as Hockey India launches the centenary celebrations of Indian hockey on November 7, 2025, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.
The occasion commemorates 100 years since the establishment of the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) on November 7, 1925, which laid the foundation for India’s dominance in the world of hockey.

The celebrations, organized by Hockey India (HI) in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), pay tribute to the sport’s glorious journey — from Olympic triumphs to grassroots revival — while charting a roadmap for the next century.

A Century-Long Legacy: The Journey of Indian Hockey

The story of Indian hockey began with the founding of the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) in 1925, which gave the sport an organized national structure.
Just three years later, India made its Olympic debut at Amsterdam (1928) — and the rest became history.

Over the next five decades, Indian hockey dominated global arenas, establishing itself as a symbol of national pride and excellence.

Golden Era of Indian Hockey (1928–1980)

India’s golden period in hockey remains unmatched in Olympic history.

• 13 Olympic medals — including 8 Gold, 1 Silver, and 4 Bronze 🥇

• First Gold Medal (1928) – Amsterdam Olympics

• Historic Hat-Trick of Golds – 1928 (Amsterdam), 1932 (Los Angeles), 1936 (Berlin)

• Post-Independence Glory – Gold at 1948 London, 1952 Helsinki, 1956 Melbourne

• Last Olympic Gold – 1980 Moscow

Legends like Dhyan Chand, Balbir Singh Sr., Udham Singh, and Dhanraj Pillay turned hockey into India’s national identity.

From Decline to Revival: The Modern Era

After the 1980s, with the advent of artificial turf and changing styles of play, Indian hockey faced a temporary decline.
However, strategic reforms and government initiatives have revived the sport in recent decades:

• Formation of Hockey India (2009): Replaced IHF as the official governing body.

• Professional Leagues: Hockey India League (HIL) brought visibility and corporate support.

• Olympic Comeback: India won Bronze at Tokyo 2020, ending a 41-year medal drought.

• Women’s Hockey Rise: The Indian women’s team reached new heights, finishing 4th at Tokyo 2020 and clinching medals at the Asian Games.

Centenary Celebration Highlights (2025)

To celebrate 100 years of Indian hockey, Hockey India and SAI have planned a series of nationwide events:

1. 1000 Matches in 500 Districts:
   Over 36,000 players will participate in men’s and women’s matches symbolizing equality and inclusion.

2. Photo Exhibition:
   A grand exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will showcase rare photos, memorabilia, and Olympic moments from 1928 to 2025.

3. Commemorative Book – “100 Years of Indian Hockey”:
   A special publication chronicling India’s hockey evolution, legendary players, and memorable victories.

4. FIH Junior World Cup Trophy Tour:
   The nationwide trophy tour starts on November 7, ahead of the FIH Junior World Cup 2025 in Tamil Nadu (Nov 28 – Dec 11), the first-ever edition featuring 24 teams.

Government’s Role in Promoting Hockey

The Indian government has placed hockey among its priority sports through flagship programs:

• Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): Funds training, foreign exposure, and coaching for elite athletes.

• Target Asian Games Group (TAGG): Focuses on building competitive squads for continental success.

• ASMITA Hockey League: Encourages women’s participation at junior and sub-junior levels.

These initiatives underline India’s long-term vision to restore hockey’s global dominance.

Voices of Legacy and Inspiration

“Memories inspire generations. When we look back at our stalwarts, we get the motivation to take Indian hockey ahead.”
— Dilip Tirkey, President, Hockey India

“Hockey is not just a sport for India — it’s an emotion, a legacy of national pride.”
— Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports

Indian Hockey’s Global Impact

India’s contribution to the global hockey community is immense:

• One of the most decorated nations in Olympic history.

• Influenced the game’s tactical evolution from artistry to fitness and speed.

• Produced some of the world’s finest players and coaches.

• Instrumental in promoting gender equality in sports through women’s hockey empowerment.

The Road Ahead

As Indian hockey enters its second century, the focus is clear — grassroots development, digital training ecosystems, and equal representation.
Hockey India aims to nurture new talent across rural India and ensure that both men’s and women’s teams compete at the pinnacle of world hockey once again.

“This centenary is not the end of a journey — it’s the beginning of a new era,” said Dilip Tirkey.

Conclusion

The 100 Years of Indian Hockey celebration is not just a tribute to the past — it is a call to the future.
From Dhyan Chand’s stick magic to Harmanpreet’s drag flicks, the spirit of Indian hockey continues to unite a nation of a billion dreams.

As India celebrates this iconic milestone, it honours its legends, inspires its youth, and reignites its vision to once again stand tall as the powerhouse of world hockey.

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