Every year on January 15th, India celebrates Army Day to honor the extraordinary bravery of its armed forces. This day pays tribute to the soldiers and martyrs who valiantly fight against the country’s enemies, often at the cost of their lives. Interestingly, many renowned athletes have strong ties to the army. From cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni to Olympic champions like Neeraj Chopra, these sports icons hold significant positions within the Indian Armed Forces. In this article, we’ll explore the military affiliations of these famous athletes and honor their contributions to both sports and the nation.
MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra: The Lieutenant Colonels
Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra have both made remarkable contributions to their respective sports. Notably, they hold the prestigious rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army. In 2011, MS Dhoni was appointed an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army’s 106 Para TA Battalion. His exceptional feats on the cricket field earned him this honorary title, showcasing a strong bond between sports and military service.
Similarly, Abhinav Bindra, who made history by winning India’s first Olympic gold medal in shooting at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, also received the Lieutenant Colonel rank in the Territorial Army in 2011. Additionally, another cricketing legend, Kapil Dev, who led India to its first ODI World Cup victory in 1983, joined the Indian Territorial Army in 2008, further exemplifying the significant connection between athletics and military service.
Sachin Tendulkar: The Group Captain in the Air Force
Regarded as the ‘God of Cricket,’ Sachin Tendulkar has not only been a phenomenal player but also served as a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force. This rank, which is higher than Wing Commander, was bestowed upon him in 2010 in recognition of his immense contributions to the sport of cricket. Tendulkar’s honor reflects not just the respect he commands in the sports community but also highlights the reverence between sports and the armed forces in India.
Neeraj Chopra: The Junior Commissioned Officer
Neeraj Chopra, who shot to fame by winning a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is another prominent athlete with a military background. In 2016, he was honored with the rank of Naib Subedar in the Rajputana Rifles unit of the Indian Army. His achievements in athletics and military service intertwine to create a powerful narrative of dedication and patriotism.
In summary, Army Day serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the Indian Armed Forces and the remarkable individuals who bridge the worlds of sports and military service. From MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra to Sachin Tendulkar and Neeraj Chopra, these athletes embody the courage, discipline, and commitment that resonate deeply within both the athletic and military landscapes in India.