Bhubaneswar: Odisha participated enthusiastically in the nationwide celebrations marking 100 years of Indian Hockey (1925–2025). A special event was held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar to commemorate the glorious legacy of the sport in the state and the country.
The day’s celebrations commenced with Shri Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Sports and Youth Services (DSYS), flagging off a celebratory rally. The rally was followed by a series of friendly matches, which were organized to capture the spirit of the game and honor its rich history.
A major highlight of the state-level celebration was the felicitation of several Odia Olympians for their remarkable contributions to Indian Hockey.
The distinguished players honored for their achievements were Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, and Lilima Minz. This event underscored Odisha’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and recognizing the athletes who have brought laurels to the nation. The state’s celebration was an integral part of the broader national centenary observance.

