'Bharat Gaurav' honour in British Parliament for Indian Hockey legend major Dhyan Chand has revived the demand for Bharat Ratna for him. Indian Hockey team is elated with the honour to Dhyan Chand, India's most decorated Olympian.
The Indian team is in Shilaru, 58 km from here, at Sports Authority of India's Rajiv Gandhi High Altitude Training Centre for the high altitude transit camp till July 29.
India Hockey Team captain Sardara Singh said it is pride moment for Indian hockey and the country as well.
"I believe next Bharat Ratna will be conferred on Dhyan Chand," he said, adding that the legendary player had a huge contribution in establishing Indian Hockey as a brand.
Meanwhile, vice captain PR Srijesh said that Dhyan Chand should have been conferred with the Bharat Ratna.
"Honour in British Parliament is a big thing and he deserves it and many more awards. I hope he will be conferred with the highest civilian award by his own country," he said.
Indian Hockey, which recently ran through controversy for sacking its coach Paul Van Ass, has found a reason to be happy.
Field Hockey player Raghunath said, "Country should accept the honour with pride because it is a huge motivation for youngsters."
Remembering the contribution of Dhyan Chand to Indian Hockey, coach Roelant Oltmans, said: "He was an exceptional talent, it is great that British parliament is honouring him, which is fantastic for Indian hockey."
After Sachin Tendulkar was awarded with coveted award, the sports fraternity had blamed the government of ignoring the legend for the prestigious award.
Field Hockey player Raghunath said, "Country should accept the honour with pride because it is a huge motivation for youngsters."
Remembering the contribution of Dhyan Chand to Indian Hockey, coach Roelant Oltmans, said: "He was an exceptional talent, it is great that British parliament is honouring him, which is fantastic for Indian hockey."
After Sachin Tendulkar was awarded with coveted award, the sports fraternity had blamed the government of ignoring the legend for the prestigious award.
Dhyan Chand known as 'the wizard' is most remembered for his extraordinary goal-scoring feats, in addition to earning three Olympic gold medals (1928, 1932, and 1936) in field hockey, during an era where India was the most dominant team in Hockey.