The deaths and demises continue across the world. The bad year of 2020 only gets worse. On this joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, we woke up to news of Indian hockey legend and Padma Shri winner Balbir Singh Sr. passing early on Monday after a continuous fight against illness in the last couple of weeks.
Probably one of the most decorated sportsmen in Indian history, Balbir Singh had revolutionized hockey in India and was mostly known for his gold medals in the 1948, 1952 and 1956 Olympic Games – at three consecutive Olympics around the world. Not only did he prosper as a player, but he is known or taking the Indian team to bronze and gold medals at the 1971 and 1975 World Cups as the coach as well.
He probably didn’t get as much importance as the likes of Major Major Dhyan Chand, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli have got, but this man has been one of the most inspirational sportsmen in India, for which he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1957, and hen the Major Dhyan Chand Life Time Achievement Award by Hockey India in 2014.
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Sometimes known as the greatest center-forward in the sport, Balbir Singh led India to a run of 56 goals scored and none conceded in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, an unparalleled run in the sport. He passed away earlier today after having multiple health issues, a few months away from completing his 96th birthday!
Some of India’s top sportsmen and the Prime Minister too, took to social media to express their grief over the loss of this iconic sports personality. See here:
Saddened to hear about the demise of hockey legend #BalbirSingh ji. Have had the good fortune of meeting him in the past, such an amazing personality! My heartfelt condolences to his family 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/knjOq7VEav
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) May 25, 2020
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Balbir Singh ji Sr.
He was one of the greatest to have graced the game of hockey 🏑.
May his soul Rest in Peace! pic.twitter.com/Z4tnb6D3OB
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 25, 2020
Sad to hear the passing of hockey legend Shri Balbir Singh Sr. A three-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Padma Shri awardee and one of India's greatest athletes, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Condolences to his family, friends and admirers.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 25, 2020
Padma Shri Balbir Singh Sr. Ji will be remembered for his memorable sporting performances. He brought home lots of pride and laurels. Undoubtedly a brilliant hockey player, he also made a mark as a great mentor. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and well wishers.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 25, 2020
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