Odisha Celebrates Indian Hockey Team’s Historic Victory at Kalinga Stadium

Bhubaneswar, 9 August 2024: The Sports and Youth Services Department of Odisha hosted a grand celebration today at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, to commemorate the Indian Hockey Team’s historic achievement at the Paris Olympics. The team secured their second consecutive Bronze Medal after 52 years, marking a significant milestone in Indian sports history.

The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, and Deputy Chief Minister Ms Prabhati Parida, Hon’ble Minister of Sports & Higher Education, Odia Language Literature & Culture Department, Shri Suryasbanshi Suraj, amongst other Ministers who expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishment.

This celebration of Indian Hockey featured cultural performances, symbolic Olympic ring formations by 300 plus athletes, and the ceremonial cutting of a Chhena Poda, symbolizing the nation’s unity and the sweetness of victory.

On behalf of the entire state of Odisha, Chief Minister extended heartiest congratulations and gratitude to each and every player of the Indian Hockey Team. Addressing the gathering, he said, “Representing India on the international stage is a significant achievement, regardless of the medals and prizes. Our team has consistently given its best, and their hard work is truly commendable.  They have made the state and nation proud, and inspired millions of young sportspersons. Special heartfelt thanks to Odia hockey hero Amit Rohidas whose contribution to the growth of Indian Hockey is exemplary.”

Inspiring the young sportspersons, Chief Minister said his government will always extend the support needed for ourthem to excel in sports. We will continue to stand by our athletes and help them transition from grassroots to gold, he added.

The event was attended by Cabinet ministers, Secretaries from various government departments, eminent sportspersons, and other dignitaries and officials of the Sports Department all of whom gathered to honour the Indian hockey team’s victory and celebrate this remarkable achievement.