Shiralie Chaturvedi
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The modern day Dhyanchand, as many would call him, Balbir Singh Sr. has passed away at the age of 95. The revered hockey player was first one to awarded the Padma Shri in 1957. He played pivotal roles in securing three Olympic golds for India, in 1948, 1952, and 1956. He had logged a record for most goals scored by an individual in a men’s hockey final of the Olympics.
On May 12 he had suffered a cardiac arrest, as tweeted by his grandson Kabir.
Medical Update for Padma Shri Balbir Singh Sr. (12/05/2020)
– nanji suffered a cardiac arrest this morning at 0900 hrs. Timely medical assistance revived him. He was admitted in medical ICU @ Fortis, Mohali on Friday, 8th May in a very serious multi-organ affected state. (1/2)— Balbir Singh Sr. (@BalbirSenior) May 12, 2020
The news of his passing away didn’t just jolt an entire nation, this included sportsters, actors, politicians alike.
Saddened to hear about the demise of hockey legend #BalbirSingh ji. Have had the good fortune of meeting him in the past, such an amazing personality! My heartfelt condolences to his family 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/knjOq7VEav
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) May 25, 2020
Saddened to learn about passing away of Hockey legend Balbir Singh Sr. A Triple Olympic Gold medallist, he exemplified qualities of perseverance, dedication & sportsmanship. Sir, you will be dearly missed & will forever remain an inspiration! A grateful State bids you farewell. pic.twitter.com/bwQwJyYbdo
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) May 25, 2020
A true sporting icon, #BalbirSingh Sr Sir’s achievements will continue to be a guiding light for athletes! Saddened to hear of his demise. My condolences to his family, friends and supporters! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/GnO4dl3BbD
— Sharath Kamal (@sharathkamal1) May 25, 2020
IN PICTURES: We take a look at the outstanding career of three-time Olympic (1948, 1952 and 1956) champion Balbir Singh Sr#Hockey #BalbirSinghSenior #BalbirSingh pic.twitter.com/GAj9tVzA0S
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) May 25, 2020
Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Balbir Singh Sr ji. An athlete par excellence and a role model beyond words! His bestowed hands may strengthen my passions more. My condolences to his family, friends and fans!#balbirsingh #Balbirhockey pic.twitter.com/figkm8ibBW
— P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) May 25, 2020
No hockey fan in our country is bereft of #BalbirSingh Sr’s legacy! With his demise, the golden era of Indian Hockey has lost its brightest star! My deep condolences to the family members and loved ones.
— Mayor of Amritsar (@karamjitrintu) May 25, 2020
We pray peace for his soul, a man who re-shaped what hockey meant for the country with an illustrious legacy to uphold.
