The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, located in the heart of Delhi, was established in 1933 as a gift from the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. This stadium was originally called the Irwin Amphitheatre and it was a multipurpose venue that was designed by architect Anthony S. DeMillo. The facility was inaugurated by Lord Willingdon and was envisioned to feature gardens that would provide a stunning view of the historic Purana Quila (Old Fort), aligning with the architectural plans laid out by Edwin Lutyens for New Delhi.
These plans were then modified and the stadium was later called the National Stadium in anticipation of the 1951 Asian Games. In 2002, the name was changed and it was called Major Dhyan Chand, in honour of the legendary hockey player of India.
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Major Dhyan Chand Stadium: Key Events and Renovations
The Major Dhyan Chand Stadium is one of the most iconic centres that has played a key role in Indian sports history. It served as the host venue for the 2010 Men’s Hockey World Cup and the field hockey venue during the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Before the Hockey World Cup, the stadium underwent significant renovations. The new-look facility was then made public on 24 January 2010 and became the first venue for the 2010 Commonwealth Games to be completed. This was after the stadium underwent a revamp that cost Rs 262 crore, which was 50 crore more than the original budget.
The renovation transformed the previous earthen embankments into a new rectangular seating bowl, enhancing spectator experience and stadium functionality. This new facility now spans 17,500 square meters within a 37-acre (150,000 m²) complex, and has three synthetic pitches—two meeting international standards and a third for practice.
Major Dhyan Chand Stadium Stands
There are many stands within the stadium, hence providing superb visibility by the playing field to be enjoyed by all of the spectators.
East Stand
These include seats allocated to VIP guests, officials, and the media. Its view of the field is not obstructed and is surely the best option for public sitting on any game day.
West Stand
This end is located directly across the East Stand and accommodates ordinary spectators. West Stand offers a great view of the game while with easy access to amenities and services around the stadium.
North and South Stands
Here stands are behind the goal and house some of the most vocal hockey fans in the game, offering a different perspective on the game action, particularly through penalty corners and attacking plays.
Major Dhyan Chand Stadium: Facilities and Features
The Major Dhyan Chand Stadium location in Delhi has a state-of-the-art polygrass turf across all pitches, equipped with advanced sprinkler systems. The main field can accommodate approximately 16,200 spectators, while the second pitch offers 900 permanent seats and an additional 1,600 temporary seats. Both these competitive pitches are flood-lit with foldable floodlight towers (hinged mast lights), and it provides an illumination level of 2,200 lux during competitions – this is suitable for high-definition television broadcasts.
Player facilities include well-appointed changing rooms, relaxation lounges, and a VVIP lounge, ensuring that athletes have the best possible experience during their events.
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Final Words
The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium stands as a testament to India’s rich sporting heritage. With its strategic location, historical significance, and modern amenities, it continues to be a cornerstone of field hockey and a prominent venue for various national and international sporting events.
FAQs about Major Dhyan Chand Stadium
Q) When was the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium built?
A) The stadium was built in 1933 as a gift to Delhi from the Maharaja of Bhavnagar.
Q) What is the location of the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium?
A) The stadium is located in the heart of New Delhi, near India Gate and the Purana Quila (Old Fort).
Q) What major events has the stadium hosted?
A) It hosted the 2010 Men’s Hockey World Cup and was the field hockey venue for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Q) How large is the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium?
A) The stadium spans 17,500 square meters within a 37-acre complex and has a seating capacity of 16,200 spectators.5. When was the stadium renamed after Major Dhyan Chand?
The stadium was renamed in honor of Major Dhyan Chand in 2002.