India’s sporting legends Sachin Tendulkar and Abhinav Bindra marked National Sports Day with heartfelt tributes to the nation’s athletes, celebrating their achievements and the transformative power of sports. Observed annually to honor hockey icon Major Dhyan Chand, whose unmatched skill led India to Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936, the day underscores the importance of sports in fostering health, unity, and national pride. The national hockey stadium in New Delhi, named after Dhyan Chand, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
In a passionate post on X, Tendulkar emphasized the role of sports in promoting physical and mental well-being in an era dominated by screens and smartphones. “The more connected I am to my body through sports, the stronger and healthier I feel, enabling me to give my all to my family, friends, and our foundation,” he wrote. Urging citizens to embrace sports, Tendulkar called for celebrating athletes across disciplines, recognizing their hard work and perseverance. He highlighted India’s growing prowess in diverse sports, from chess to judo, as a reflection of the nation’s rich diversity and untapped potential.
Tendulkar spotlighted young trailblazers like D Gukesh, the youngest male chess world champion, and 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh, the youngest FIDE Women’s World Cup chess champion. He also praised wrestler Rachana for her gold at the U17 World Championship 2025 and 17-year-old Naisha Mehta for securing India’s first-ever gold in Junior Girls Solo Dance at the Asian Roller Skating Championship 2025. Other standout athletes included judoka Tulika Maan and the women’s lawn bowls team—Rupa Rani Tirkey, Lovely Choubey, Pinki, and Nayanmoni Saikia—who clinched gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, bringing attention to a lesser-known sport.
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The cricket icon credited the rise of sports leagues for nurturing talent and sparking interest among youth. Beyond cricket’s IPL and Women’s Premier League, he highlighted the Indian Super League (football), Pro Kabaddi League, Premier Badminton League, and Hockey India League, among others, as platforms that empower local talent and promote a sports culture. “Building a culture around sports and fitness is crucial for individuals and society,” Tendulkar asserted, advocating for outdoor play and opportunities for young athletes to shine.
Abhinav Bindra, India’s 2008 Olympic gold medalist in 10m air rifle shooting, paid tribute to the unsung heroes behind athletes—parents, coaches, teachers, physiotherapists, and friends—who quietly support their journeys. “Sport teaches us to strive, respect, and stand together,” Bindra said, expressing hope that Olympic values would inspire not just athletes but the entire nation. His message underscored the collective effort required to elevate India’s sporting ecosystem and foster unity through shared aspirations.
As India celebrates National Sports Day, Tendulkar and Bindra’s words resonate as a call to action, encouraging citizens to embrace sports, support emerging talent, and build a healthier, more connected nation.
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