Honoring Legends, Reliving Passions, and Inspiring Futures

Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood. Today’s writing prompt—“Name the professional athletes you respect the most and why”—is very close to my heart.

Being a sports-loving person, and with today being National Sports Day, I feel this is the perfect moment to share my reflections, my journey, and the larger message that sports bring into our lives.

Remembering the Wizard of Hockey

As the nation awakens on this crisp August morning, hearts swell with pride and enthusiasm, for today is not just a date on the calendar, but a day of reverence, celebration, and inspiration.

29th August marks the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand Singh, lovingly remembered as the Wizard of Hockey.

Born in 1905 in Prayagraj, he rose from humble beginnings to become the shining beacon of Indian sports.

His stick was said to obey his command like magic, leaving opponents bewildered and audiences mesmerized.

Today, as we celebrate his 118th birth anniversary, we not only honor his genius but also acknowledge his undying spirit that continues to inspire generations.

Although he passed away in 1979, his legacy endures, reminding us that sportsmanship, dedication, and humility are the true hallmarks of greatness.

National Sports Day, also known as Rashtriya Khel Divas, is a celebration of the countless athletes whose sweat and sacrifices have brought glory to our nation.

It is a day when the echoes of victory and the lessons of defeat blend together, teaching us to embrace the true spirit of sportsmanship.

The Theme of the Year

This year’s theme, “Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society,” resonates deeply.

Sports have the power to transcend caste, creed, gender, or age. On the field, there are no divisions—only teamwork, passion, and determination.

Equally important is the role of sports in building physical fitness and mental resilience. Especially in modern times, when stress and sedentary lifestyles dominate, sports become a natural antidote, instilling discipline and joy in daily life.

Athletes I Respect the Most

On this occasion, I would like to name the professional athletes who have left a deep impact on me:

• Major Dhyan Chand – Not only for his hockey wizardry but for his humility. Despite global recognition, he lived a simple life, teaching us that true greatness needs no loud proclamation.
  
• Sachin Tendulkar – The “God of Cricket,” whose dedication and calmness under pressure made him a role model for millions. His career taught us that consistency and discipline outweigh temporary failures.
  
• P.V. Sindhu – Her grit, resilience, and ability to shine on the global stage inspire countless youngsters, especially women in India, to pursue sports fearlessly.
  
• Mary Kom – The “Magnificent Mary” proves that motherhood, age, or circumstances can never stop a determined heart. Her story is a living example of perseverance.
  
• Sunil Chhetri – A footballer who carried Indian football on his shoulders, reminding us that passion matters more than popularity.

These athletes represent more than medals or records—they symbolize courage, perseverance, and the will to rise above challenges.

My Personal Journey with Sports

Sports have always been an inseparable part of my life. From childhood cricket matches in dusty lanes to cheering for India during badminton, hockey, or football, sports gave me joy, energy, and direction.

One of my most unforgettable chapters began with a forgotten passion—table tennis.

Rediscovering an Old Love

One day, after a gym session, I noticed a dusty table tennis board tucked away in our clubhouse. It had been neglected for years, but for me, it was like a call from the past.

During college, TT was my favorite game, and that board awakened memories of thrilling rallies and countless hours of practice.

Without hesitation, I bought rackets and balls, and began playing again—first alone, then with curious children who gathered around.

Their laughter filled the hall, and soon, adults joined in too. The neglected corner was transformed into a hub of joy and energy.

A Twist of Fate

Just as our TT sessions became routine, life threw me a curveball. I was transferred to Siliguri, and leaving behind my new-found TT family was painful.

But destiny had other plans — my new society also had a TT board! I restarted, this time with new kids, while my Silver Oak companions kept calling to ask when I’d return.

After a year, I finally came back home. The welcome I received was overwhelming, and together we revived our TT evenings.

But this time, I dared to dream bigger—why not organize a tournament?

Building the Dream

The idea was welcomed with enthusiasm. Teams were formed with creative names—Backspin Pandits, Chop Champs, Rally Royals, Smash Stars, Table Turners,

And my own team, Net Ninja. From a 12-year-old prodigy to a 66-year-old enthusiast (yes, that’s me!), our group embodied the inclusiveness of sports.

The toughest challenge was funds. With an estimated budget of ₹1 lakh, we launched a sponsorship drive.

Thanks to the dedication of friends like Rakesh Chaudhary, Avinash Kishan, and Noddy, our dream came true.

The Grand Tournament

On the big day, our clubhouse buzzed with excitement. Banners, cheering squads, and nail-biting matches created an atmosphere of sheer joy. Every rally was intense, every match a lesson.

Net Ninja reached the finals, but victory slipped away at the last hurdle. Yet, we did not feel defeated.

As the saying goes, “In sports, you either win or you learn.” The lessons, memories, and friendships were far more rewarding than any trophy.

The Lasting Legacy

The tournament left a mark far beyond the games. The once-forgotten TT board became a symbol of community, passion, and togetherness.

New players kept joining, and our society became a place where fitness and friendship thrived side by side.

For me, this journey was proof that age is never a barrier. It reminded me that sports are not just about medals— they are about rediscovering yourself, uniting people, and living life with energy and purpose.

My final submission

As I look back, I realize that National Sports Day is not only about honoring legends like Major Dhyan Chand but also about reviving the spirit of sports in our everyday lives.

Athletes like Tendulkar, Sindhu, Mary Kom, and Chhetri inspire us, but so do the unsung players in our own neighborhoods who play with equal passion.

So today, let us pledge to celebrate sports not just once a year but as a daily habit. Whether it’s cricket, TT, running, or even a morning walk, let us embrace the discipline, fitness, and joy it brings.

And who knows—maybe the next time you see a dusty board or an old forgotten passion, you too might rediscover a world of excitement and memories waiting to be made.

✨ Wishing you all a very Happy National Sports Day!

BE HAPPY… BE ACTIVE… BE FOCUSED… BE ALIVE

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