Organized in association with Hockey India, the celebrations will begin on November 7 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium
More than 1,400 hockey matches are played simultaneously in more than 550 districts across the country, involving more than 36,000 players at the grassroots level
A 30-minute mixed exhibition match will be played to highlight gender equality, teamwork and inclusivity
New Delhi, November 3, 2025: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday announced the grand celebration to mark 100 years of Indian Hockey (1925-2025). The centenary celebrations, which will be held in association with Hockey India, will be held on November 7 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, with parallel events taking place in over 550 districts across India.
The landmark event commemorates a century of India’s rich hockey heritage, honors the legends who brought glory to the country and celebrates the enduring spirit of the sport that continues to inspire millions. The festivities in New Delhi will begin at 8:30 am, with a series of special events that capture the essence of Indian hockey’s glorious journey.
“As India celebrates 100 years of hockey, we honor a century of pride, perseverance and national glory. This milestone is an opportunity to remember our heroes who have brought honor to the country and to draw inspiration from their journey as we look ahead. Hockey is more than just a sport for India – it is part of our identity and collective spirit. The celebrations across over 550 districts will not only highlight our heritage but also take the story of Indian hockey to all corners of the country and inspire young boys and girls to pick up the stick and play with passion” said Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh L. Mandaviya.
Link to social media – https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQl7JGADQR_/?igsh=MThpamVlY243OHRpcg==
A 30-minute practice match featuring the Hon’ble Sports Minister’s XI and Hockey India’s Mixed This will be followed by felicitations of hockey legends from generation to generation, recognizing their contribution to India’s status as the world’s most successful hockey nation, with eight Olympic gold medals and 13 Olympic podium finishes.
Hockey is one of the priority sports in the government’s plan. Men’s and women’s hockey are among the government’s key programs: Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). Under these arrangements, national teams receive funding for training, competitions, exposure trips and allowances, among other facilities in each Olympic cycle. To spread hockey among women, the Ministry of Sports is organizing the ASMITA hockey league across the country at junior and sub-junior levels.
“The government remains strongly committed to strengthening the Indian sporting ecosystem through increased investments, modern infrastructure and institutional reforms. Our vision is clear: to make India one of the best sporting countries in the world by 2036, consistently performing at the highest levels in every discipline. With continued collaboration between the ministry, the Sports Authority of India and federations like Hockey India, we will continue to nurture young talent, expand access to sports and ensure that the Indian tricolor ranks high on every international stage.”, added the Minister of Sports.
The centenary will also witness the publication of the official commemorative book, “100 years of Indian hockey”chronicling the sport’s remarkable journey: its triumphs, challenges and revival. The publication will serve as both a historical record and a tribute to generations of players who shaped India’s hockey legacy.
President of Hockey India, Dr. Dilip Tirkey, said: “Celebrating 100 years of Indian hockey is a deeply emotional and proud moment for all of us. This milestone honors our glorious past while inspiring a new generation to continue the legacy. Indian hockey has always represented the spirit of resilience, unity and excellence. As we celebrate this centenary, our focus is on strengthening the game from the grassroots up, empowering both men and women equally, and preparing our teams to once again reach the pinnacle of world hockey. I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported Indian hockey over the years – our players, coaches, fans and partners. Together we will make the next century even more golden.”
A large-scale photography exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium takes visitors on a visual journey spanning 100 glorious years, showcasing rare archive photographs, memorabilia and Olympic moments – from the 1928 Amsterdam Games to the current revival.
To celebrate this occasion at the grassroots level, over 1,400 hockey matches will be played simultaneously in 550 districts nationwide, involving over 36,000 players. A men’s and a women’s competition is organized in each district, symbolizing equality and inclusivity. The initiative aims to create a festive atmosphere across the country and unite rural and urban India in celebration of the national sport.
Secretary General of Hockey India, Shri Bhola Nath Singh added: “As we mark this historic milestone, I am proud to see how Hockey India has evolved into a transparent, accountable and forward-looking organization. Our focus has been on strengthening systems – from performance-based financing and grassroots development to the successful launch of professional leagues for both men and women. We also invest in coaching, analytics and infrastructure to ensure sustainable growth. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Sports Authority of India, whose consistent support has been crucial in developing world-class facilities and nurturing young talent. This centenary celebration is not just a celebration of history, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to building a stronger future for Indian hockey.”
The Ministry of Sports and Hockey India remains committed to preserving and promoting India’s hockey heritage while paving the way for a new era of excellence and inclusivity in sports.
For reference, please find the link to the campaign video: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jEEGjkPQ1JbsgO1U2k15OGZccFas9UBl