Sachin Tendulkar Celebrates National Sports Day and India's Sporting Diversity

Celebrating National Sports Day

On August 29, Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar expressed his joy in recognizing the significant progress India has made in the realm of sports. He emphasized that the nation’s current achievements extend beyond just a couple of popular sports, showcasing the rich diversity of talent across various disciplines.

A Nationwide Movement for Fitness

The upcoming National Sports Day (NSD) 2025 will be spearheaded by the Fit India Mission, transforming into a three-day nationwide initiative from August 29 to 31, themed 'Ek Ghanta, Khel ke Maidan Main'. Following a call to action from Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, states and Union Territories are gearing up for this grand celebration.

Promoting Physical Activity

This initiative aims to raise awareness about the necessity of dedicating at least 60 minutes daily to physical activities to combat lifestyle-related diseases. The spirit of NSD 2025 also honors the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship, and Respect, alongside the Paralympic values of Courage, Determination, Inspiration, and Equality, as stated by the Union Sports Ministry.

A Collective Effort

This year, NSD 2025 will truly embody a people's movement, with schools, colleges, and universities uniting over 35 crore students, alongside youth clubs, volunteers from MY Bharat, and various community organizations, to create a nationwide festival celebrating sports and fitness.

Tendulkar's Message on Social Media

In a message shared on X, Tendulkar stated, 'I take pride in celebrating the remarkable advancements India has made in sports on National Sports Day. Our achievements now span a variety of sports, reflecting the diversity of our nation and its people. Every athlete deserves recognition for their dedication and hard work.'

Highlighting Recent Achievements

He acknowledged recent champions, including Divya Deshmukh, the youngest FIDE Women’s World Cup champion, and D Gukesh, the youngest male chess world champion. Tendulkar also reminisced about India's historic gold medal in lawn bowls at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, a sport that was relatively unknown in the country.

Celebrating Diverse Sports Leagues

Tendulkar noted the rise of various sports leagues, which have fostered interest and talent across the nation. 'In addition to cricket's IPL and Women's Premier League, we now have leagues for football, kabaddi, badminton, and more, all promoting local talent and empowering youth through sports,' he remarked.

The Importance of Sports and Fitness

He has consistently advocated for cultivating a culture of sports and fitness, stressing the significance of outdoor activities for individuals and society. 'Excelling in sports is commendable, but equally important is how athletes can motivate everyone to engage in physical activities, whether it’s playing a sport, dancing, or simply walking,' he added.

A Call to Action

In conclusion, Tendulkar shared that in a world dominated by screens, he feels 'stronger and healthier' through sports and exercise. He encouraged everyone to celebrate athletes, engage in sports, and take steps towards healthier lifestyles on this National Sports Day.