Legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand's statue has been unveiled by his son Ashok Kumar in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of National Sports Day which is observed on the birth anniversary of the former. The day is celebrated as a tribute to the country's sports icons for their immense contribution to bringing laurels to the nation at the highest level.
Ashok Kumar was delighted with the opportunity to unveil the statue of his father stating that Dhyan Chand's qualities have influenced the country a lot. He also said that it is a proud moment for him that the country celebrates his father every year. "A son got the chance to unveil his father's statue. His qualities and efficiency influenced the country and its self-respect. He started a new culture of Hockey in India.
"He set new parameters as a player, soldier, citizen and father. It is a moment of pride for me. I thank the MPE department for it. The children who come here will get a new direction and inspiration," Ashok Kumar said while speaking to the ANI after unveiling the statue.
Earlier on August 24, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Labour & Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, called upon the citizens of the country to participate in outdoor sports for at least an hour today. He also stated that National Sports Day highlights the importance of sports that helps us maintain a balanced and healthy life.
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream is to make India a fit nation. The Fit India Movement, envisioned by him, is a programme for every citizen, and I invite you all to be part of this nationwide celebration on this year's National Sports Day," he said. Moreover, Mansukh Mandaviya also paid a floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary today on the occasion of National Sports Day.
