National Sports Day 2026 marks Dhyan Chand's 121st birth anniversary
On 29 August 2026, India celebrated National Sports Day on the 121st birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, centred on the 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' initiative.
Summary
India celebrated National Sports Day on 29 August 2026 to mark the 121st birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal led celebrations at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium near India Gate, New Delhi. This year's celebrations centred on the nationwide 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' initiative, which asks citizens, especially young people, to spend at least one hour on sports and physical activity. Mansukh Mandaviya said the initiative aims to strengthen the Fit India Movement.
Key facts
- Day
- National Sports Day, 29 August
- Commemorates
- Major Dhyan Chand – 121st birth anniversary (2026)
- 2026 theme initiative
- 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' – one hour of sport
- Venue
- Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi
- Linked to
- Fit India Movement
Practice MCQs 3 questions
National Sports Day on 29 August 2026 marked which birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand?
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Correct answer: C — 121st
The 2026 National Sports Day commemorated the 121st birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.
Which nationwide initiative was the focus of National Sports Day 2026 celebrations?
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Correct answer: A — Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein
The celebrations centred on 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein', urging at least one hour of sport.
Consider the following statements about National Sports Day 2026: 1. It marked the 125th birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand. 2. The 'Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein' initiative aims to strengthen the Fit India Movement. Which of the above is/are correct?
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Correct answer: B — 2 only
Statement 1 is wrong: it was the 121st birth anniversary. Statement 2 is correct.