Tributes pour in for Indian legend
Modi, Kovind and Kohli express grief at death of Balbir, three-time Olympic gold medallist
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have expressed their grief at the death of legendary hockey player Balbir Singh.
Balbir, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, died yesterday at a private hospital in Mohali. Balbir, 96, was undergoing treatment and was in a “semi-comatose condition”. He was hospitalised on May 8 with high fever and breathing trouble. But, his Covid-19 test had come negative.
“Sad to hear the passing of hockey legend Shri Balbir Singh Sr. A three-time Olympic Gold Medallist, Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s greatest athletes, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Condolences to his family, friends and admirers,” tweeted President Kovind.
Offering condolence to his family, Prime Minister Modi said: “Padma Shri Balbir Singh Sr. Ji will be remembered for his memorable sporting performances. He brought home lots of pride and laurels. Undoubtedly a brilliant hockey player, he also made a mark as a great mentor. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and well wishers.”
Balbir was part of the Indian teams that won gold at the 1948 London Olympics, Helsinki 1952 and Melbourne 1956. His record for most individual goals scored in an Olympic men’s hockey final remains unbeaten. He had scored five goals in India’s 6-1 victory over the Netherlands.
India cricket captain Virat Kohli expressed his grief on the passing of the legend and wrote on his Twitter handle: “Saddened to hear about the passing of the legend, Balbir Singh. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this time of sorrow.”