Why Major Dhyan Chand’s Bharat Ratna Remains Elusive Amid National Honors Debate

Summary – Despite National Sports Day celebrations and the renaming of India’s top sports award after him, Major Dhyan Chand has yet to receive the Bharat Ratna, sparking ongoing public debate.,

Article –

Major Dhyan Chand, revered as a legendary figure in Indian field hockey, continues to be at the center of a significant public debate regarding the conferment of India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna. Despite his immense contributions and the renaming of the nation’s premier sports award after him, the Bharat Ratna remains elusive for this iconic sportsman.

Why Major Dhyan Chand’s Bharat Ratna Remains Unawarded

Major Dhyan Chand’s exceptional achievements include leading India to three Olympic gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936. His legacy is honoured annually on August 29, National Sports Day, which marks his birthday and celebrates Indian sportsmanship.

Although the Indian government renamed the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021, the Bharat Ratna has not yet been awarded to him. This highest civilian recognition is awarded at the government’s discretion and considers various criteria, including lifetime contributions across diverse fields.

Key Points Behind the Ongoing Debate

• Recognition within Sports: Dhyan Chand’s name adorns stadiums, institutions, and sporting awards, acknowledging his impact on Indian sports culture and history.
• Government Position: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has stated that the Bharat Ratna’s conferment is guided by merit and protocol, with no specific timeframe or confirmation regarding Dhyan Chand’s nomination.
• Public and Institutional Support: Veteran athletes, sports bodies, the Indian Olympic Association, and fans widely support awarding him the Bharat Ratna, emphasizing his inspiration to generations.
• Challenges Noted: Analysts mention precedent, political considerations, and award criteria as potential factors influencing the delay in conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dhyan Chand.

Timeline and Developments

1. August 29: Celebrated annually as National Sports Day in India in honour of Dhyan Chand’s birth.
2. 2021: Renaming of the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award as Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award took place.
3. Post-2021: Increased public campaigns, Right to Information (RTI) requests, and appeals have sought the Bharat Ratna for Dhyan Chand.
4. 2025 (August): No official announcement yet, but ongoing discussions and proposals from state governments and sports ministries continue.

What Lies Ahead?

With National Sports Day 2026 approaching, public expectation for honoring Major Dhyan Chand with the Bharat Ratna remains strong. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports may escalate the matter for Cabinet consideration amidst growing pressure. Meanwhile, accompanying celebrations and memorial initiatives are planned nationwide to further commemorate his legacy.

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Bhavya

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