To commemorate the completion of 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey, Hockey Chandigarh, in collaboration with UT Chandigarh Sports Department, organised a grand celebration of the Indian Hockey Centenary Year at the Hockey Stadium, Sector 42, Chandigarh. On this historic occasion, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, attended as the Guest of Honour.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Shri Karan Gilhotra, President of Hockey Chandigarh, said that it is a moment of great pride that Chandigarh is hosting this historic celebration to connect the younger generation with the golden heritage of Indian Hockey. On this occasion, the Administrator unveiled the logo of the newly announced Chandigarh Hockey League, which will be held annually with a prize money of ₹35 lakh.
He also administered the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ pledge to all present. The Administrator, UT Chandigarh, along with the Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, felicitated the players and coaches of Chandigarh who have brought laurels to the city in various national and international hockey tournaments, including renowned Olympians Deepak Thakur, Rajpal Singh, Baljit Singh, and Gurjant Singh, along with current Indian team players Sanjay, Maninder Singh, and Vikramjit Singh. Family members of Rohit, captain of the Indian Junior team, also attended the ceremony.
In his address, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria said, “Chandigarh has produced several Olympians who have brought glory to Indian Hockey. The city’s talent, dedication, and sporting spirit are truly inspiring. I am confident that Chandigarh will continue to play a significant role in the progress of Indian Hockey in the years to come.”
He also thanked the Hockey League for organizing this grand event and expressed pride that young players from the region are rising to bring further laurels to the nation. He added that the Administration is making every effort to provide top-class facilities to promote Indian hockey. Shri Kataria further said that Punjab has always led Indian hockey with pride, and he hoped that the state continues to uphold and enhance the glory of Indian hockey in the future.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Hockey Chandigarh, acknowledging the continued support of the Chandigarh Administration, partners, and the sporting community in promoting hockey and nurturing emerging talent. Present on the occasion were Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, Education Secretary; Sh. Sorabh Kumar Arora, PCS, Director Sports; and other officials of the Chandigarh Administration.