Introduction
India, a nation with a rich culture and history, has a sporting tradition that runs deep. While cricket often dominates the limelight, numerous athletes from various disciplines have quietly made their mark, achieving extraordinary feats without the fanfare they deserve.
These unsung heroes have shown remarkable dedication, and skill, often overcoming significant challenges. Here, we celebrate some of these incredible individuals who have contributed immensely to Indian sports.
Shankar Lakshman – Hockey
Indian hockey boasts a storied history, adorned with triumphs on the global stage. Among the legends who have etched their names in this illustrious narrative, Shankar Lakshman stands out as an unsung hero whose exceptional skills and steadfast dedication made him one of the greatest goalkeepers in the sport’s history.
Shankar Lakshman was born on July 7, 1933, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. His entry into the Indian Army provided him with the training and discipline that would later define his illustrious career. Lakshman’s talent as a goalkeeper quickly became apparent.
Known for his quick reflexes, sharp anticipation, and an imposing presence in the goal, he rapidly ascended through the ranks. His debut for the Indian national team in the early 1950s marked the beginning of a glorious chapter in Indian hockey. He was a cornerstone of the Indian hockey team during its golden era.
His tenure included three Olympic Games: Melbourne (1956), Rome (1960), and Tokyo (1964). He helped India win three medals in the Olympics; a gold medal in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, a silver medal in the 1960 Rome Olympics, and one more gold medal in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
He stood like a wall guarding the goal as guarding a fortress. Despite his remarkable contributions, Lakshman did not receive the widespread recognition he deserved during his lifetime. The spotlight often favored forwards and goal scorers, leaving goalkeepers like Lakshman in the shadows.
In 1965, Lakshman was honored with the Arjuna Award, one of India’s highest sporting accolades. Posthumously, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2023, acknowledging his lasting impact on Indian hockey.
Mohammed Salim – Football
Football in India has a rich history, dotted with numerous players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Among these pioneers stands Mohammed Salim, a name that might not be as well-known as some of his contemporaries but one that holds a significant place in the annals of Indian football.
Mohammed Salim was born in 1904 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), a city that has been the cradle of Indian football. From a young age, Salim exhibited a keen interest in the sport, playing barefoot in the local fields of his neighborhood.
Salim’s professional career began with Mohammedan Sporting Club, one of India’s oldest and most prestigious football clubs. In 1936, Salim’s talent earned him an invitation to play for Celtic FC in Scotland.
This move was historic, as he became the first Indian footballer to play for a European club. What made this achievement even more remarkable was that Salim played barefoot, a practice common in India at the time but unheard of in European football.
After a brief but impactful stint in Scotland, Salim returned to India. He continued to play for Mohammedan Sporting Club, contributing significantly to their dominance in Indian football during the late 1930s.
Despite his contributions, Mohammed Salim’s story remains relatively unknown to many. The lack of proper documentation and recognition during his time means that much of his legacy is preserved through oral histories and the memories of those who witnessed his brilliance.
Mohammed Salim’s journey from the fields of Calcutta to the prestigious grounds of Celtic Park is a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination.
Arati Saha – Swimming
In the records of Indian sports, the name Arati Saha shines brightly. Born in 1940, she broke barriers and set records in a time when opportunities for women in sports were severely limited.
Arati Saha’s story is not just about her incredible feat of swimming across the English Channel but also about her role in inspiring generations of Indian women to pursue their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
As a young swimmer, Arati Saha dominated national competitions, setting numerous records. Her prowess in the water soon caught the attention of national selectors, and at the tender age of 11, she represented India at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
Arati’s biggest challenge and the most defining moment of her career came when she decided to swim across the English Channel. Inspired by the achievements of Indian swimmer Mihir Sen, who had successfully crossed the Channel in 1958, Arati set her sights on this formidable task.
On August 27, 1959, Arati made her first attempt to swim the Channel but had to abandon it due to adverse weather conditions. Undeterred, she made a second attempt on September 29, 1959. This time, her determination and perseverance paid off.
After swimming for 16 hours and 20 minutes, she successfully reached the English coast, becoming the first Asian woman to swim across the English Channel. Arati Saha’s remarkable achievement earned her widespread acclaim and recognition.
She was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 1960, making her the first Indian sportswoman to receive the award. Arati Saha will always be remembered as the mermaid of India, a true trailblazer who made waves in the world of sports and beyond.
Wilson Jones – Billiards
When we think of the sport of billiards in India, one name stands out: Wilson Jones. A name synonymous with excellence and pioneering spirit, Wilson Jones laid the foundation for India’s dominance in the world of billiards and snooker.
Wilson Lionel Garton-Jones was born on May 2, 1922, in Pune, Maharashtra. His tryst with billiards began at a young age when he started playing at the local Parsi Gymkhana.
Wilson’s journey to the top was not easy. He faced numerous challenges, including limited opportunities to compete internationally. In 1950, he won the Indian National Billiards Championship, marking the beginning of a series of national victories.
The pinnacle of Wilson’s career came in 1958 when he won the World Amateur Billiards Championship held in Calcutta (now Kolkata). This victory was not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for Indian sports, as Jones became the first Indian to win a world title in billiards.
He successfully defended his title in 1964 in New Zealand, solidifying his status as a world-class player. Jones was also involved in the administration of the sport. He served as the President of the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) and worked tirelessly to promote billiards and snooker in the country.
He was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri in 1960, one of India’s highest civilian honors. Wilson Jones will always be remembered as the father of Indian billiards and a true icon of the sport.
Sarwan Singh – Track and Field (Hurdles runner)
When we speak of Indian athletics, names like Milkha Singh and P.T. Usha often dominate the conversation. However, behind the spotlight, there are numerous athletes whose contributions have been significant yet less celebrated.
One such unsung hero is Sarwan Singh, a hurdles runner whose dedication and achievements in the sport are worth acknowledging. Sarwan Singh was born in Punjab. His journey to prominence wasn’t an easy one.
Competing in the hurdles, a discipline that demands both speed and precision, Singh faced tough competition at both national and international levels. One of Sarwan Singh’s most notable achievements came during the 1954 Asian Games held in Manilla, Philippines.
He won a gold medal in the 110-meter hurdles. Though he may not be as widely recognized, Sarwan Singh’s contributions to Indian athletics are significant. But, all of these efforts went in vain as he had to resort to driving a taxi for two decades to feed his family. There are many Sarwan Singh’s who are lost in history.
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