Abhinav Bindra praised everyone who “silently carry the athletes forward” while Sachin Tendulkar marveled at India’s ascent in newer sports. The two greats shared their thoughts on India’s sporting development on National Sports Day.
National Sports Day is observed nationwide on August 29 in honor of Major Dhyan Chand, who is considered by many to be the best field hockey player in the history of the sport.
India won three gold medals in the Olympics in 1928, 1932, and 1936 thanks to Dhyan Chand’s exceptional goal-scoring and ball-control abilities. Named after the legend, the national hockey stadium is located in the center of the capital.
“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. That, in turn, allows me to give my all to other areas of my life: my family, friends, and my work with our family foundation,” Tendulkar posted on ‘X’.
“On National Sports Day this year, I urge everyone to celebrate our athletes, pick up a sport or try some exercise, and take the first step toward healthier minds and bodies,” said the cricketing icon.
“Interest, talent, and opportunities to participate in sports come in different arenas, and all athletes deserve our admiration and respect both for participating, and for the hard work and persistence required to excel.”
Tendulkar claimed that the diversity of India was reflected in the athletes’ success across a range of disciplines.
He cited the rise of leagues as a major reason why more athletes were moving up the ranks, citing examples such as 19-year-old women’s World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh and chess world champion D Gukesh.
“Divya Deshmukh who just became the youngest-ever FIDE Women’s World Cup chess champion, and D.Gukesh, who became the youngest among men; Rachana, the talented wrestler, who won the gold medal at the Ul7 World Championship 2025; and Naisha Mehta, who at just 17 secured India’s first-ever gold in Junior Girls Solo Dance at the Asian Roller Skating Championship 2025…
“We also congratulate athletes like Tulika Maan who excels in Judo, and Rupa Rani Tirkey, Lovely Choubey, Pinki, and Nayanmoni Saikia, whose team won the gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Women’s Fours Lawn Bowls, a sport that was previously almost unknown in India,” said Tendulkar, enumerating the achievements.
He claimed that sports leagues—not just in cricket—were a major factor in sparking young people’s interest.
“The growth of leagues in a wide range of sports is one important factor that has helped generate interest and nurture talent from all around the country. In addition to cricket’s IPL and Women’s Premier League, we have the Indian Super League for football, Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Street Premier League for tennis ball cricket, Premier Badminton League, Premier Handball League, Pro Volleyball League, Hockey India League, etc.
“These diverse leagues help promote local talent and empower our young people through sports. I have always said that building a culture around sports and fitness as well as outdoor play is crucial for individuals and society.”
Bindra, who won a gold medal in 10m air rifle shooting at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, expressed his wish that the country’s citizens would adopt Olympic ideals for the benefit of the whole country.
“On National Sports Day my thoughts are with every Indian athlete, known and unknown, and with all those who silently carry them forward, parents, coaches, teachers, physios, friends.
“Sport teaches us to strive, to respect, to stand together. May Olympic values guide not just our athletes but all of us as a nation,” said Bindra.
