Hockey India is set to mark a historic milestone — 100 years of Indian hockey — with an ambitious plan to organize 1,000 matches across the country. This grand celebration aims to honor India’s rich hockey legacy, from the golden days of Dhyan Chand to the modern successes of both men’s and women’s teams.
The event, titled “Hockey India Centenary Celebration,” will feature matches at various levels — from grassroots to national — involving school teams, state associations, and professional players. The initiative is designed to promote hockey at the community level and inspire young players to take up the sport.
According to Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, “This is not just a celebration of our past but an investment in our future. We want hockey to reach every corner of India again, just like it once did.” Matches will be hosted in over 30 cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, and Chennai.
Apart from the matches, the centenary celebrations will include exhibitions, legacy documentaries, and special felicitation ceremonies for former hockey legends. The Indian men’s and women’s national teams will also participate in special exhibition games to commemorate the occasion.
India’s association with hockey dates back to the early 20th century, with the country dominating the Olympic stage from 1928 to 1956, winning six consecutive gold medals. The sport, once considered India’s national pride, continues to hold a special place in the nation’s sporting culture.
By organizing this massive celebration, Hockey India hopes to rekindle that passion and inspire the next generation of hockey heroes. The event will also spotlight regional talent and strengthen grassroots programs in collaboration with schools and academies.
The centenary year promises to be a landmark moment, reminding the world of India’s deep connection with the sport that brought it global glory.
