Aligarh: Institutions and schools of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) organised a variety of programmes to celebrate National Sports Day 2025, commemorating the legacy of hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand and promoting the message of fitness, teamwork, and inclusivity.
At Dr Ziauddin Ahmad Dental College, celebrations were conducted under the guidance of Principal Prof. R. K. Tewari. A three-day programme began with an Indoor Carom Competition at Hadi Hasan Hall, organised by Mr. Kaif, Sports Secretary (Boys), followed by a 300-metre Brisk Walk for faculty members, students, and staff on the second day.
The celebrations concluded with a Badminton Tournament at Begum Azizun Nisa Hall, successfully conducted by Mrs. Atiyaa Shadab, Sports Secretary (Girls). Prof. Tewari lauded the efforts of the sports secretaries and praised the active involvement of students, faculty, and staff, emphasising the importance of fitness, camaraderie, and discipline in building a healthy and inclusive society.
The Ahmadi School for the Visually Challenged marked the occasion with a three-day celebration featuring indigenous games such as tug of war, ludo, and chess, along with fitness talks on the theme “Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein.”
The final day included yoga, cycling, and a 1 km Walkathon by students and staff. The events were successfully organised by Ms. Sana Raza (Sports In-charge) and Mr. Syed Shahrukh Husain, under the exemplary leadership of Principal Dr Naila Rashid, who motivated students and staff to participate wholeheartedly. The celebrations concluded with the message that sports promote fitness, discipline, and unity, echoing the spirit of “Khelega Desh, Khilega Desh.”
At Saiyyid Hamid Senior Secondary School (Boys), Principal Mr. Sabahuddin inaugurated the three-day programme that featured table tennis, chess, and football competitions. The Zafar Iqbal Panthers emerged winners in all three events, while the Bhagat Singh Riders finished runners-up in football and chess. On the basis of overall points, the Bhagat Singh Riders lifted the Dhyan Chand Trophy, which was presented by Prof. Mohd Azam Khan (Deputy Director, DSE) and Dr Mohd Abdul Qadeer (Assistant Director, DSE).
Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony, Prof. Azam Khan urged students to pursue sports with zeal for mental and physical well-being, while Dr Abdul Qadeer praised the contributions of teachers and students in ensuring the success of the event. Vice Principal Mr. Mohd Javed Khan proposed a vote of thanks, and the proceedings were conducted by Mr Ghufran Ahmad, PGT (Political Science).
The AMU ABK High School (Girls) also joined the celebrations with a series of sports events from August 29 to 31. The highlight was a cycling event on the concluding day, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and staff. Vice Principal Dr Saba Hasan led the participants and encouraged students to adopt fitness as part of their daily lives.
The spirited celebrations across AMU institutions and schools reinforced the values of teamwork, fitness, and sportsmanship while paying tribute to Major Dhyan Chand, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
