Tendulkar, Bindra Pay Tributes on National Sports Day

Sporting legends Sachin Tendulkar and Abhinav Bindra on Friday paid heartfelt tributes to athletes on the occasion of National Sports Day, celebrated every year to honor hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand.

Tendulkar, recalling India’s progress in recent years, said he was amazed by the nation’s rise in newer sporting disciplines and praised the hard work of athletes bringing glory to the country.

Olympic gold medalist shooter Abhinav Bindra saluted not only athletes but also those who “silently carry the athletes forward” — including coaches, support staff, and families who stand behind every sporting success.

National Sports Day, observed on August 29, marks the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players in history. He led India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936 with his unmatched skills, earning the title of “Hockey Wizard.