Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup

Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 – Celebrating India’s Glorious Hockey Legacy

Hockey, one of the most ancient and dynamic sports known to humankind, holds a special place in India’s heart. The game, believed to be older than the Olympics itself, took firm roots in the Indian subcontinent during the British era in the late 19th century. The first hockey club was founded in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1885, followed by many others across the country.

On 7th November 1925, the various clubs came together in Gwalior to form the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF). Two years later, in 1927, the IHF was recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), paving the way for India’s participation in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. The Indian team triumphed with its first Olympic Gold Medal, marking the beginning of an era of hockey supremacy. India went on to win five consecutive Olympic Golds — at Los Angeles (1932), Berlin (1936), London (1948), Helsinki (1952), and Melbourne (1956). In total, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team has won eight Gold, one Silver, and two Bronze medals — a record that defines India’s unmatched hockey heritage.

Odisha – The New Home of Indian Hockey

Carrying forward this glorious tradition, Bhubaneswar, the vibrant capital of Odisha, hosted the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 from 28th November to 16th December 2018. Organized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), this was the 14th edition of the prestigious Men’s Hockey World Cup, one of the sport’s biggest global tournaments alongside the Olympics.

This marked India’s third time hosting the Men’s Hockey World Cup, after Mumbai (1982) and New Delhi (2010). With this feat, India became only the second nation after the Netherlands to host the event three times. The Kalinga Hockey Stadium, expanded to accommodate 15,000 spectators, became the epicentre of world hockey during this grand event. Sixteen of the world’s best teams competed in 36 thrilling matches over 19 days, showcasing the finest display of skill, speed, and sportsmanship.

Hockey India and Odisha – A Model Partnership

Hockey India, the national governing body for the sport, oversees all hockey activities for men and women in the country. It is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, and affiliated with FIH, IOA, and AHF. The Government of Odisha, in partnership with Hockey India, became the official sponsor of India’s Men’s and Women’s National Hockey Teams till 2023 — a historic initiative by any state government.

Odisha’s unwavering support for hockey has transformed the state into a global hub for the sport, nurturing young talent and hosting world-class events. The enthusiasm of Odisha’s people and the state’s commitment to sports development have set a new benchmark in promoting India’s national game.

A Philatelic Tribute – Celebrating India’s Hockey Glory

In honour of India’s enduring hockey legacy and the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018, the Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp. The Hockey World Cup Stamp not only celebrates India’s remarkable achievements in the sport but also symbolizes Odisha’s role in reviving and promoting hockey on the world stage.

An Everlasting Legacy

From Calcutta’s first hockey club in 1885 to the grand arenas of Bhubaneswar, India’s journey with hockey is one of passion, pride, and perseverance. The Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2018 Stamp stands as a tribute to the heroes of Indian hockey and to a nation that continues to inspire the world with its love for the game.