The National Sports Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Meenakshi College of Nursing (MCON), Chennai, on 29th August 2025, honoring the legacy of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and promoting fitness, sportsmanship, and unity among students and faculty. Organized in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Sportsmen Association, the celebration brought a distinguished dimension to the occasion with their active participation.
The program commenced at 9:00 AM with a soulful invocation by the MCON Choir, followed by a warm welcome address delivered by Dr. Jayabharathi B, Vice Principal, MCON, who highlighted the significance of the day and the true spirit of sports. The honorable Chief Guest, Dr. Sokkalingam K., Former Inspector General of Police and Chairman, Tamil Nadu Sportsmen Association, led the flag hoisting ceremony. This was followed by a symbolic unity balloon release by dignitaries, signifying harmony and togetherness.
A spirited march past by B.Sc. Nursing students showcased discipline and team spirit, while a ceremonial lap was led by Mr. Iyyappan, Founder and General Secretary, Tamil Nadu Sportsmen Association. Students also pledged to uphold the values of fitness and sportsmanship. The cultural program staged by the students added vibrancy and enthusiasm to the day’s proceedings.
The event further honored distinguished guests and sportspersons. Dr. Fabiola M. Dhanaraj, Principal, MCON, and Dr. Jayabharathi B, Vice Principal, felicitated the chief guest and dignitaries. Awards were presented to achievers including Mr. S. J. Akhilesh, Youngest Swimmer (Veerathana Award), Mr. Elankathir, International Roller Skating Player (Free Style), Ms. Keerthana, National Champion in Carrom, and MCON students recognized in athletics. Recipients of the Dhyan Chand Award were also celebrated for their outstanding contributions to sports and fitness.
Inspiring keynote and inaugural addresses by Dr. Fabiola M. Dhanaraj and dignitaries highlighted the role of sports in instilling discipline, teamwork, and resilience. The Tamil Nadu Sportsmen Association honored Dr. Fabiola with a memento in appreciation of her efforts to foster a sports culture. The day also featured exciting volleyball and throwball matches, which added to the festive spirit and reinforced teamwork and competitiveness. To mark the occasion, saplings were presented to dignitaries and a sign board was inaugurated by the chief guest to symbolize a future path for sports celebrations.
The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Thephilah Cathrine R, Associate Professor and Sports & Games Cell Coordinator, followed by the National Anthem led by the MCON Choir, instilling pride and patriotism.
This memorable celebration highlighted the enduring power of sports to bring people together, inspire excellence, and strengthen the values of unity, discipline, and wellness.
