100 Years of Hockey Royalty: Gurbux Singh Reminisces on India’s Unmatched Legacy

As Indian hockey marks a historic centenary milestone in 2025, one of its most revered figures, Gurbux Singh, shared reflections on the sport’s monumental journey and its profound impact on India’s sporting and cultural landscape. Now 90 years old, Singh stands as the oldest living hockey legend, whose career spanned landmark events including the 1964 Tokyo Olympics gold medal.

Key highlights and notable updates:

Century of Achievement: Indian hockey has flourished for 100 years, claiming eight Olympic gold medals and standing tall on the global stage.

Gurbux’s Journey: Starting his career in 1955 at Gwalior University and training under Olympic hero Roop Singh, Gurbux made his India debut in 1959 and was part of the victorious 1964 Olympic gold-winning team.

Historic Rivalries: Singh emphasized the legendary India-Pakistan hockey rivalry, which, despite its intensity on the field, was marked by mutual respect and no off-field animosity.

Legacy of Excellence: The era of Dhyan Chand and early Olympic triumphs established India as hockey's powerhouse, inspiring national pride during and post-Independence.

Hockey and Nationalism: Singh recounted how British fear of India’s dominance delayed their participation in hockey in the Olympics until 1948, which symbolized India’s global sporting assertion.

Centenary Celebrations: The upcoming events aim to rekindle the sport’s golden days and educate younger generations on hockey’s historical significance.

Messages from Leadership: Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey highlighted the importance of honoring the legacy while propelling Indian hockey into a successful future.

As India celebrates this centenary, the legacy of bravery, skill, and unity that Indian hockey embodies remains inspiring new generations, cementing its place as a cherished national treasure.

Sources: IANS Live, Hockey India, Indian Express, The Statesman, The Hawk