Etching an important space in our history books, sports has been a source of joy and pride for many Indians. Indians from all over the country tune into matches to cheer on our athletes and send them all our love and strength to help them ensure a win! Many of the country’s athletes get the honour of representing our country on international platforms like the Commonwealth Games, Olympics etc. To celebrate their achievements and valour, we acknowledge the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, August 29 as National Sports Day.National Sports Day 2024 ThemeNational Sports Day serves as a powerful platform to advocate for the development of sports infrastructure, increased support for athletes, and the nurturing of sporting talent at the grassroots level. The theme this year is “Building a Sports Culture.” By celebrating the unmovable spirit of sportsmanship and honouring the enduring legacy of Major Dhyan Chand, this annual event inspires a nation to embrace sports and foster a culture of athletic excellence. History of Sports Day: Who was Dhyan ChandMajor Dhyan Chand, a legendary Indian hockey player, was born on August 29, 1905. Renowned for his exceptional skills, he led India to unprecedented success on the international stage. Chand's dedication to his craft was unparalleled. Despite his demanding military duties, he would spend countless hours practising hockey under the moonlight, earning him the nickname "Dhyan Chand" His remarkable talent and unwavering commitment propelled him to the forefront of Indian hockey. He played a pivotal role in India's historic hat-trick of Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. National Sports Day 2024 SignificanceNational Sports Day is a special day to remember Major Dhyan Chand, a great hockey player. It's also a time to talk about how important sports are for our country. We want to encourage people to play sports and be active. Government initiatives and fitness movements play a crucial role in fostering a sports culture and providing the necessary infrastructure and support for athletes to excel. This day is about celebrating sportsmanship and the great work of Major Dhyan Chand. Honouring the Legacy of Dhyan Chand His illustrious career spanned two decades, during which he represented India in 185 matches and scored over 400 goals. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Indian government conferred the Padma Bhushan award upon him in 1956. To honour his legacy, National Sports Day is celebrated on August 29, Dhyan Chand's birthday. This year, National Sports Day will be observed on Thursday.