It was 99 years ago, on November 7, 1925, that the first national body for hockey was formed in Gwalior; and entering the 100th year of Indian hockey, a year-long celebration has been announced by Hockey India.
Highlighting these 100 years has been India's golden run at the Olympics, which saw the team winning six gold medals in a row. Till date, India's record of eight Olympic gold medals in total is unmatched. To go with that, the country has also won a silver medal and four bronze medals at the Games.
The upswing after a period of drought since the 1980 gold has seen India returning to the Olympic podium in back-to-back editions -- Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024, winning bronze on both the occasions. The Tokyo Games were made even more special with the best-ever fourth-place finish by the women's team.
The 100th year of Indian hockey will be made special by the return of Hockey India League (HIL) after a seven-year pause. In fact, the women's edition will make its HIL debut this year, besides the return of the men's tournament.
"As we begin celebrations for 100 years of Indian hockey, the relaunch of the Men's Hockey India League and the inaugural Women's Hockey India League signify a momentous occasion. This year-long celebration is a tribute to our remarkable journey and a testament to our enduring legacy," said Hockey India president, Dilip Tirkey.
The national federation's secretary general, Bhola Nath Singh, added to the president's words.
"The centenary celebration of Indian hockey is a historic milestone that reflects our rich heritage and our vision for the future...We look forward to an unforgettable year of high-caliber hockey, as we honor our past and build a brighter future for the sport in India," he said.
