Ashok Kumar Dhyan Chand: Chronicle of Prestige, Legacy of Excellence

In the chronicles of pre-independent India, it is unequivocal that the international acclaim garnered by the nation owes much to India’s national game of Hockey and the iconic figure of Major Dhyan Chand.

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With unparalleled mastery, intuitive prowess, strategic brilliance, steadfast commitment, and unwavering demeanor, Dhyan Chand elevated Hockey to a form of art and emerged as an ambassador of goodwill, joy, and generosity on the world platform. Esteeming field hockey as a sacred endeavor, he received reciprocal affection and admiration from the sport. Indeed, Dhyan Chand’s lineage emerges as a pioneer in Hockey, fostering and molding its heritage. Notably, his brother Roop Singh holds the distinction of being a two-time Olympic medallist.

In addition to this, Ashok Kumar also has three silver medals from the Asian Games (1970, 1974, and 1978) and two World Cup podiums – Bronze, 1971 Barcelona and Silver, 1973, Amsterdam.

Ashok Kumar fondly remembers the character and personality of his late father and the experience of growing up as the son of ‘The Greatest.’ He says, “My father, Major Dhyan Chand, illuminated the realm of Hockey as its shining star. His impact on the sport was so profound that it unveiled its true essence to the world. Commencing his hockey odyssey within the army unit where he served, he chose Hockey as his nightly pursuit amidst the regiment’s sporting obligations. His affection for the game ignited at the Jhansi Heroes Club, now adorned with a statue in his honour. His reverential regard for him echoes through India, as evidenced by numerous statues erected nationwide, including five in Jhansi alone. The Indian army team’s voyage to New Zealand in 1926 marked a pivotal juncture in the sport, capturing much-needed international attention and catalyzing Hockey’s inclusion in the 1938 Olympics.”

On the journey of field hockey to be contested as a sport at the Olympics, the former Indian captain Ashok Kumar said, “It was during a meaningful tour of New Zealand by the inaugural Indian Hockey team, comprised predominantly of Sikh regimental Centre players, that Major Dhyanchand’s virtuosic display of wrist manipulation and stick mastery redefined the sport. Such was the magnitude of his skill that conventional adjectives fell short, prompting the press to articulate his prowess with unprecedented terms like “wizardical.” This effusive coverage catalyzed a groundswell of demand, compelling the International Olympic Committee to integrate Hockey into the main Olympic roster.”

The former player from Indian Airlines and Mohan Bagan Athletic Club player had an exceptional ball control technique, and he reached a formidable prowess on the field through his dribbling. On his father’s influence on his natural game, he said, “My father refrained from urging us into the realm of Hockey, aware of his profound reverence for the sport. A paragon of perfection, he refined his skills within an era devoid of contemporary amenities and professionalism. Our approach to the game starkly contrasted with modern standards. Through countless hours of resolute practice and an unwavering dedication to represent India, I honed my skills and forged a path to carve out a distinctive identity for myself. While my father’s influence loomed large, he never directly steered us toward Hockey.”

TSC’s Ravi Mandapaka caught up recently with Ashok Kumar Dhyan Chand for a conversation about his times in field hockey and his legendary father, Major Dhyan Chand.

Ravi: Could you delineate the fundamental disparity like Hockey between your era and that of your esteemed father, Major Dhyan Chand?

Ashok Kumar: Whether in his epoch or ours, financial concerns were never entwined with our pursuit of the game. Our motivation stemmed from a deep-seated desire to propel India to the zenith of global hockey prowess. Our devotion to seeing India ascend as the premier force in the sport was the driving force behind our endeavours. Despite receiving scant recognition or support from the authorities, our allegiance to our nation and our sport remained unwavering.

Ravi: What sentiments do you harbor regarding the notable absence of acknowledgment through the Padma awards, given your remarkable achievements? Do you have any reflections on this matter?

Ashok Kumar: (Concealing his emotions) – Ha! Ha! Ha… Even my father has yet to be bestowed with the Bharat Ratna, and my uncle, Captain Roop Singh, with the Padma Bhushan despite securing two Olympic medals in 1932 and 1936. I hope that someday, before I depart this life, the government will indeed confer this monumental national honour upon my late father, my late uncle, and, naturally, myself. Though belated, I remain optimistic that this recognition will eventually be extended to our family.

Ravi: You were a member of India’s only Hockey World Cup team, which has yet to secure a medal. Please elaborate on this and suggest changes India could implement to ascend to the podium in future World Cups.

Ashok Kumar: We were on the verge of clinching the 1971 and 1973 World Cups; however, luck eluded us in the finals of 1973, where we succumbed to Holland in a tie-breaker due to inclement weather despite leading 2-0. In 1971, our aspirations were thwarted due to the inclusion of unfit players from influential circles. This trend persists, preventing India from reclaiming the World Cup since 1975. The 1975 team possessed exceptional fitness, speed, and a knack for lightning-fast strikes, culminating in a resounding victory. Our defense, midfield, and forward line were formidable, with every player excelling. Our singular focus was on securing the gold, and we approached the tournament with unwavering determination.

Ravi: Reflecting on the evolution of Hockey from the traditional two 35-minute halves to the contemporary 4-quarter format, what insights can you offer regarding this transformative change?

Regrettably, subpar coaching and a defensive mindset have plagued Indian Hockey, resulting in a decline. Hockey is inherently an attacking game; adopting a defensive stance is antithetical to success. The dwindling participation in Hockey underscores the dire state of the sport in India, a stark departure from its once-vibrant legacy.

Ravi: How do you discern the disparities between Indian and foreign coaches in Indian Hockey?

Ashok Kumar: In the past, players were self-taught, but today, coaching has become more structured, with both Indian and foreign coaches playing crucial roles. The emphasis should be on adopting a proactive, attacking style rather than a defensive one to elevate Indian Hockey to new heights.

Ravi: Apart from your father, do you admire any specific players within Indian Hockey?

Ashok Kumar: While I aimed for victory in every match and tournament, success depended on the collective effort of my teammates and colleagues.

Ravi: Apart from your father, do you admire any specific players within Indian Hockey?

Ashok Kumar: Oh! You inquire about Hockey and its illustrious players. Today, I attended a match between two college teams on a grass field in Delhi. Their performance surpassed even what we achieved at their age when we embarked on our hockey journey. Witnessing their remarkable display astounded me; these young talents dazzled me and left an indelible impression. From those budding talents to the seasoned players who represented India, there is certainly no shortage of exceptional individuals I have had the privilege to witness in action. However, the systemic deficiencies have prevented us from sustaining the pinnacle we once held from 1928 to 1956. It is challenging for me to single out a few players from an era characterized by magicians and wizards, to which I also proudly belong. Indian Hockey, akin to a garland adorning the players, was a collective legacy rather than a collection of individual stars, making it difficult for me to highlight specific names to distinguish myself.

Ravi: Can you recount any memorable experiences where you endured setbacks and emerged more potent as a player and an individual?

Ashok Kumar: As I departed for the 1975 World Cup camp, I sought the blessings of my father and mother. I could discern the pain in my father’s eyes, and I made him a solemn promise—that upon my return, I would bring home the gold medal and the World Cup.

Reflecting on those moments, I believe I fulfilled a duty that my homeland demanded of me. The enthusiasm and excitement that enveloped the nation for a year following that victory, where even the humblest of citizens took to the streets in jubilation, evokes deep emotions within me. I am grateful to my deity for allowing me to contribute to my country, my homeland, and the sport in such a profound manner.