India, Indianness, and India’s Hockey – An Irrepressible Legacy

As we reflect upon hockey’s grandeur, let us remember that it is more than a game.

Indianness and patriotism are intricately woven into India’s cultural, historical, and social fabric. They represent a spectrum of values, beliefs, and emotions encapsulating the essence of being Indian. While the principle of “Indianness,” or “Unity in Diversity,” reflects a harmonious coexistence of myriad languages, religions, traditions, and customs, Indian patriotism is marked by profound love, devotion, and a sense of duty towards the nation. It also encompasses a deep pride in India’s accomplishments, rich history, and cultural legacy, often manifested in reverence through national symbols and national festivals.

The canvas of Indian hockey is rich with demi-gods. For instance, with his unparalleled skill and leadership played in four Olympics, Claudius remains one of the most decorated athletes in the sport. Balbir Singh Sr., a prolific goal scorer, secured India’s gold medal victories. Udham Singh, another stalwart, contributed to India’s dominance with his versatility and experience, participating in four Olympic Games and winning three golds and one silver. And Dhyan Chand? He is The Father of Field Hockey.

In English literature, the portrayal of India and Indianness presents a complex tapestry of perspectives shaped by various historical and cultural contexts. Colonial literature, as seen in the works of Rudyard Kipling and E.M. Forster, often depicted India through a lens of exoticism and otherness. Kipling’s “Kim,” with its intricate portrayal of the Indian landscape and people, juxtaposes the mystical allure of the East against the rationalism of the West. Similarly, Forster’s A Passage to India explores the cultural chasm between the British and Indians, symbolizing the broader colonial encounter.

Postcolonial literature further expands on this exploration. Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children mirrors post-independence India’s chaotic yet resilient history—a fitting metaphor for Indian hockey’s journey through highs and lows. Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things delves into caste, politics, and social divides–themes that resonate within Indian hockey, where players from diverse backgrounds unite to represent the country on a global stage.

Suppose you are as curious as I am about literature. In that case, you will come across Edward Said’s critical work, Orientalism, which highlights how Western literature and scholarship have historically portrayed the East, including India, while depicting it as mysterious and chaotic. Said’s insights are invaluable when examining the portrayal of Indian athletes like Dhyan Chand, whose legendary status in hockey was not only a symbol of athletic excellence but also a counter-narrative to colonial stereotypes. Chand’s finesse and dominance on the field were a powerful assertion of Indian prowess and dignity.

Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak (photo, Wellesley College)

In her essay Can the Subaltern Speak? Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak discusses the representation of marginalized voices in postcolonial discourse. This concept resonates with the narratives of lesser-known hockey players like Inam-ur Rahman, Sujit Kumar, and Syed Ali, who remain in the shadows of more celebrated figures despite their contributions.

Just as Spivak emphasizes the importance of giving voice to the subaltern, the stories of unsung heroes in Indian hockey highlight the diverse and inclusive nature of the sport. This deep-seated connection between hockey and national pride extends beyond the playing field. The sport enshrined as India’s national game is a testament to the country’s unity, valour, and enduring traditions. Just as the Indian National Flag symbolizes the country’s collective identity, hockey unites India’s diverse regions and cultures. It transcends mere competition. It embodies the cultural ethos, struggles, and triumphs of Indians from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sunlit shores of Kanyakumari. It underscores the profound connection between India’s national identity and the legacy of its national game.

For decades, Indian hockey was synonymous with grace, skill, and artistry, played on the lush, natural grass fields that mirrored the country’s organic connection to its roots. The rhythmic dance of the stick and ball on this familiar turf was a spectacle of elegance, a ballet of precision and poise that won India’s global acclaim.

Yet, as the world evolved, so did the game, ushering in an era of AstroTurf—a new terrain that seemed as foreign and unyielding as a distant planet. In the early 1970s, a cultural shift and a metamorphosis shook the foundation of hockey in Asia. The natural fields painted with unpardonable mastery of subcontinental legacy became redundant and obsolete. For India and Pakistan, AstroTurf offered a stark departure from the intuitive, artistic style that had become their hallmark. The new turf demanded a different discipline, a relentless pace, and an adaptation to a game that had become more about power and speed than finesse and flair.

In its myriad forms, life often presents us with unexpected challenges and circumstances that demand a reinvention of self — a departure from the comfort of the known into the uncertainty of the new.

When field hockey moved from grass to turf, India was forced to pack its luggage and jetted off onto a new planet. With its rich legacy and indomitable spirit, India refused to let this transition mark the end of its story. Instead, it embarked on a transformation journey, a mental and emotional evolution. India redefined its strategies, developed new techniques, and, most importantly, cultivated an unwavering belief in its ability to compete with the world in a new turf and emerge victorious. It resonated with the broader Indian ethos—reflecting the country’s ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive amidst changing landscapes.

As the years passed, India’s efforts bore fruit. The once-daunting AstroTurf became a new home ground, where the team showcased a blend of traditional flair and modern athleticism. The cemetery of doubt transformed into a field of dreams, and the world watched as India reclaimed its place as a formidable force in international hockey. In many brutal ways, and many Indian ways, I proudly tell, India triumphed over its testament to the power of discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in one’s potential.

In a heartfelt reflection, former Osmania University and Telangana goalkeeper Vijigeesha Veluri articulated the sport’s unique role in India’s cultural fabric.

Vijigeesha highlighted the deep-seated affection for hockey across urban and rural India, noting that countless stories of the game’s past remain untold. “The ability of hockey to lose its prominence and yet rise again, like a phoenix, speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. Few sports can claim such a resurgence,” she remarked, underscoring hockey’s unique place in the hearts of Indians.

Dr. Manjunath, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon and cricket enthusiast based in Bengaluru, offers a unique and romanticized view of hockey. He fondly recalls the Commonwealth Games in Pune, where, despite the exorbitant expenses under Suresh Kalmadi’s tenure, the Balewadi Stadium afforded him the rare opportunity to witness the legendary Dhanraj Pillai train up close. Pillai, an icon of his time, captivated fans and remains a cherished memory for Dr. Manjunath, who once observed him at the Pune airport, overshadowing Bollywood stars like Nana Patekar and Manisha Koirala as fans thronged around the returning Champions Trophy hero.

Dr. Manjunath also appreciates the contributions of Viren Rasquinha, whose quiet yet impactful career offered a steady hand in Indian hockey. Today, Rasquinha’s game analyses, delivered from behind the microphone, continue to bring joy and a sense of connection to the sport. Reflecting on the evolution of Indian hockey from the 1990s and 2000s to the present, Dr. Manjunath notes the transition from icons like Prabhjot Singh and Gagan Ajit Singh to modern heroes such as Mandeep Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, and the formidable Sreejesh. He fervently concludes, “May hockey and its passion endure forever.”

Long story short, as we reflect upon hockey’s grandeur, let us remember that it is more than a game. Celebrate and cherish this noble sport, for it encapsulates the quintessence of our national identity and binds us together in a shared journey of glory and unity. With its rich history and enduring legacy, hockey remains a beacon of Indian pride, lighting the way for future generations to honour and uphold.