Fifth World Cup Hockey Championship, Bombay
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | December 29, 1981 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 2,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 895 Stamp Number IN 949 Yvert et Tellier IN 696 Stanley Gibbons IN 1032 |
| Themes | Hockey | Seals(Emblems) | Sports | Stylized Figures / Persons |
The World Cup Hockey Tournament, initiated by India and Pakistan in collaboration with the International Hockey Federation (FIH), marks a significant milestone in the history of hockey. Beginning in 1971, this prestigious event has become a symbol of excellence and camaraderie among nations.
The iconic trophy, donated by Pakistan, embodies the spirit of the tournament with its exquisite design featuring a silver cup adorned with intricate floral patterns, topped by a globe representing the world, and adorned with a hockey stick and ball. Its historical and aesthetic value is estimated to be around Rs. 20,00,000, reflecting its significance in the world of hockey.
The inaugural World Cup Hockey Tournament took place in Barcelona, Spain, in 1971, with ten nations competing over ten days of thrilling matches. Pakistan emerged as the champions, securing a one-nil victory over Spain in the final, avenging their earlier defeat in the pool stage. India claimed the bronze medal, showcasing their prowess on the global stage.
Subsequent editions of the tournament saw remarkable feats and intense competition. The second World Cup, held in Amsterdam in 1973, witnessed a captivating final match where hosts Netherlands triumphed over India in a thrilling tie-breaker. West Germany secured third place with a victory over Pakistan.
India was slated to host the third World Cup in Bombay in 1975 but the venue was shifted to Kuala Lumpur following a decision by the FIH. In a dramatic final, India emerged victorious over arch-rivals Pakistan, led by skipper Ajitpal Singh, in a memorable hockey classic.
The fourth World Cup in Buenos Aires in 1977 saw Pakistan reclaiming the gold medal, while India faced disappointment, finishing sixth. The tournament expanded to include fourteen nations, with Argentina earning a concession to participate as the host nation.
The fifth World Cup, held in Bombay from December 29, 1981, to January 12, 1982, featured twelve participating nations, including the top nine teams from the previous edition and the top three from the Inter-Continent Cup held in Kuala Lumpur earlier that year.
Moving forward, the FIH has decided to hold the World Cup every four years, with automatic qualification for the top six teams from the previous edition and additional spots filled through the Inter-Continent Cup. This prestigious event continues to captivate hockey enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the talent and passion of the participating nations.
In honor of this esteemed event, the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department is privileged to issue a postage stamp, commemorating the legacy and excitement of the World Cup Hockey Tournament.