Bhubaneswar: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed pride in Odisha’s role in India’s hockey legacy as the nation celebrates 100 years of the sport.
As India celebrates 100 years of hockey, Odisha’s significant contribution to the sport has been acknowledged by Patnaik.
Taking to his X handle, Patnaik expressed pride in Odisha being part of the sport’s glorious history, highlighting its role in India’s hockey legacy.
He called hockey India’s heartbeat, emphasizing its significance. In his X handle, Patnaik mentioned key milestones, including India’s first Olympic medal in 1928 and recent successes.
“Celebrating 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey- a sport that united a nation, lifted its spirit, and gave the world a glimpse of India’s sporting brilliance. Whether it is India’s first Olympic medal in 1928, the medal in 2024, the golden era of Dhyan Chand or the resurgence of our women’s and men’s hockey, hockey has been more than a sport—it is India’s heartbeat. Proud that #Odisha is part of this glorious history”, he wrote.
Odisha, known for its passion for hockey, has produced several renowned players, including Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, and Lilima Minz, who were felicitated at the Kalinga Stadium.
Celebrating 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey- a sport that united a nation, lifted its spirit, and gave the world a glimpse of India’s sporting brilliance. Whether it is India’s first Olympic medal in 1928, the medal in 2024, the golden era of Dhyan Chand or the resurgence of… pic.twitter.com/FMpaHbiWha
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 8, 2025
