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In this article, we will be discussing about the National Sports Day 2025- Date, Significance and Quiz on Sports Day. The National Sports Day in our country is celebrated on 29th of August every year. It is also known as the Rastriya Khel Divas. The National Sports Day is celebrated on the birth anniversary of the hockey legend, Major Dhyan Chand, the famous hockey player who won gold medals in Olympics for our country in the years 1928, 1932 and 1936. He was born on this day at Allahabad and he was the captain of the Indian hockey team at the Berlin Olympics. Also, he was known as the ‘Wizard of hockey’.
National Sports Day 2025 Date – August 29
In this article readers can get a glimpse on
- History of National Sports Day
- National Sports Day Significance
- National Sports Day Quiz
History of National Sports Day
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
National Sports Day in India is celebrated on August 29th to honor the birthday of the legendary hockey player, Major Dhyan Chand. Often called “The Wizard,” his exceptional skill and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in India’s victories at the 1928, 1932, and 1936 Olympic Games. The day was first officially observed on this date in 2012 by the Government of India. The primary purpose of establishing National Sports Day was to pay tribute to Dhyan Chand’s immense contributions to Indian sports and to encourage a culture of physical fitness and sportsmanship across the nation.
On this day, the President of India honors outstanding athletes and coaches with the highest sports awards, including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Awards, and Dronacharya Awards, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Nationwide, schools, colleges, and sports organizations conduct various sporting events, marathons, and tournaments to inspire people of all ages to participate in sports. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the values that sports embody, such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience, and aims to motivate future generations of Indian athletes.
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Start Learning!National Sports Day 2025 – Significance
This day is celebrated to emphasis the significance of staying fit and healthy. It also aims to spread awareness about the importance of sports and daily activities in every individual’s life.
The National Sports Day was added to the list of celebratory days in the year 2012. On this day,
- The President of our country gives away all sports related awards like Dronacharya, Arjuna and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award to honor coaches and sportsperson for their service in their respective fields.
- Several walkathons and various football tournaments are conducted.
- Every year, the Selection Committee for Khel Ratna Award nominates two athletes.
Who is Dhyan Chand – Profile
Dhyan Chand, also known as the Magician or Wizard of hockey, was the greatest hockey player in the history of the sport. He played internationally from 1926 to 1949. As per his autobiography, Goal, he scored 570 goals in 185 matches. He was honored with Padma Bhushan in the year 1956. The 20th National Award 2012, the Gem of India, awarded by the Union Minister of India, was given to Dhyan Chand. On behalf of his deceased father, the award was received by Dhyan Chand’s son, Ashok Dhyan Chand (a hockey Olympian in his own right).
What is Fit India Movement – An Overview
In the year 2019, our Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched ‘Fit India’ Campaign on the National Sports Day. The campaign aims to promote the inclusion of physical activities and sports in our everyday lives. A committee comprising of various Government officials, members of the Indian Olympic Association, national sports federation etc was formed to provide advises on the campaign. Headed by the Union Ports Minister, the committee consists of 29 members.
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Start Learning!National Sports Day Quiz 2025
1. When is National Sports Day celebrated in India?
A) August 15
B) August 29
C) September 5
2. National Sports Day is observed to honor which sports legend?
A) Milkha Singh
B) Dhyan Chand
C) Kapil Dev
3. Which sport is Major Dhyan Chand famous for?
A) Cricket
B) Football
C) Hockey
4. In which year was National Sports Day first celebrated in India?
A) 2005
B) 2012
C) 2018
5. Which award is India’s highest sporting honor?
A) Arjuna Award
B) Dronacharya Award
C) Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
6. How many Olympic gold medals did Dhyan Chand win with India?
A) One
B) Two
C) Three
B) Dhyan Chand National Stadium
C) Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium
8. Which award is given to coaches for outstanding contribution to sports?
A) Arjuna Award
B) Dronacharya Award
C) Dhyan Chand Award
9. National Sports Day promotes awareness about the importance of what?
A) Technology and innovation
B) Sports and fitness
C) Arts and literature
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National Sports Day Quiz 2025 PDF
National Sports Day is not just about honoring a legend but also about spreading the importance of sports and fitness in everyday life. It reminds us of Major Dhyan Chand’s unmatched contribution to Indian hockey and his role in bringing glory to the nation. The day also highlights the value of discipline, teamwork, and dedication that sports instill in individuals. By celebrating this day, India encourages young athletes to follow their dreams in sports. It also builds awareness that fitness is key to a healthy lifestyle.
Beyond awards and ceremonies, National Sports Day acts as a nationwide call to action for health and wellness. Schools, colleges, and communities participate in events that strengthen the culture of sports. It also aligns with initiatives like the Fit India Movement, promoting a more active society. The day continues to inspire athletes and citizens alike to adopt sports as a way of life. Through this celebration, India nurtures a spirit of unity, strength, and national pride.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Sports Day and why is it celebrated?
National Sports Day is celebrated in India on August 29. It marks the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. The day is observed to honor his achievements and promote sports culture. Various sporting events, awareness campaigns, and award ceremonies are organized. It inspires youth to adopt fitness and value sportsmanship.
Who was Major Dhyan Chand?
Major Dhyan Chand was a legendary Indian hockey player. He won three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. Known as the “Wizard of Hockey,” he scored over 1000 career goals. His exceptional skills brought global recognition to Indian hockey. His birthday is now celebrated as National Sports Day.
When was National Sports Day first celebrated in India?
National Sports Day was first celebrated in 2012. The Government of India declared August 29 as the official date. It coincides with Major Dhyan Chand’s birth anniversary. Since then, it has been observed annually across the country. Schools, colleges, and sports organizations host special programs.
What awards are presented on National Sports Day?
The National Sports Awards are presented on this day. These include the Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, Dhyan Chand Award, and Khel Ratna Award. They honor athletes, coaches, and contributors to sports. The awards recognize excellence and lifetime achievements. The ceremony takes place at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
What is the Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
It is India’s highest sporting honor. Earlier called the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, it was renamed in 2021. The award is given for outstanding performance in sports. It includes a medal, certificate, and cash prize. It highlights extraordinary dedication and achievement in a sport.
Why is National Sports Day important for youth?
It motivates young people to take up sports actively. Sports build discipline, teamwork, and leadership qualities. The day spreads awareness about physical fitness. It shows youth that sports can be a career path. It also encourages healthy living and national pride.
What role does the government play on National Sports Day?
The government organizes events nationwide on this day. It hosts award ceremonies at the national level. Sports camps and awareness drives are held in schools. Authorities promote fitness campaigns like “Fit India Movement.” These efforts aim to strengthen India’s sports culture.
How do schools and colleges celebrate National Sports Day?
They organize matches, races, and fitness activities. Students participate in competitions to showcase their talent. Awareness sessions on health and sports are conducted. Tributes are paid to Dhyan Chand through speeches. These activities encourage a culture of sports among students.
What is the Dhyan Chand Award?
The Dhyan Chand Award recognizes lifetime achievement in sports. It is given to retired athletes for their contribution. The award honors dedication and service beyond active sports. It includes a cash prize, certificate, and medal. It encourages athletes to keep inspiring future generations.
How does National Sports Day promote fitness in India?
It spreads awareness about the importance of health and exercise. Fitness programs and campaigns are organized nationwide. The Fit India Movement is also linked to the day. Citizens are encouraged to adopt sports as a lifestyle habit. It creates a strong connection between fitness and national development.
