Indian Sports Icons Laud Growth on National Sports Day

New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI) – On National Sports Day, marked in honor of the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, Indian sports icons Sachin Tendulkar and Abhinav Bindra shared their perspectives on the country’s burgeoning sports scene. Major Dhyan Chand, often hailed as one of the greatest field hockey players, secured three Olympic gold medals for India in 1928, 1932, and 1936, thanks to his exceptional skills.

Tendulkar emphasized the importance of sports in maintaining physical and mental health, especially in today’s digital age. "In our present age of smartphones and constant use of screens, the more connected I am to my body through sports and exercise, the stronger and healthier I feel," he posted on 'X'.

Encouraging everyone to engage with sports, Tendulkar noted India’s growing prowess in diverse disciplines, citing it as a testament to the nation's variety and talent. "Interest, talent, and opportunities to participate in sports come in different arenas," he said, urging respect for athletes’ dedication.

He highlighted the achievements of young champions like chess prodigies D Gukesh and Divya Deshmukh, wrestler Rachana, and roller skater Naisha Mehta, celebrating their strides in global competitions. Tendulkar lauded the impact of sports leagues across various domains, stating, "These diverse leagues help promote local talent and empower our young people through sports."

Separately, Bindra, India’s 2008 Olympic gold medallist in 10m air rifle shooting, spoke about the broader influence of sports values. Speaking on the significance of teamwork and respect, he reminded citizens to embody Olympic ideals for societal advancement. "May Olympic values guide not just our athletes but all of us as a nation," he said.

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