Harmanpreet Singh: The 'Sarpanch Sahab' of Indian Hockey

On January 6, India celebrates the 29th birthday of Harmanpreet Singh, the indomitable leader of the country's men's hockey team and a global icon of the sport.

From humble beginnings in a small village in Punjab to becoming the heartbeat of the Indian national team, Harmanpreet's journey is an inspiring tale of unmatched dedication.

As a player, captain, and drag-flicking maestro, he has rewritten the history of Indian hockey and continues to inspire millions with his achievements on and off the field.

The Sarpanch of Indian Hockey

Harmanpreet Singh is not just a player. He is an institution in himself.

As the captain of the Indian national hockey team, his leadership has been instrumental in bringing glory to the nation.

Known for his precision as a defender and his unparalleled skill in penalty corners, Harmanpreet is regarded as one of the finest drag-flickers the sport has ever seen.

His achievements are as vast as his talent. From clinching two Olympic bronze medals, including one at the 2024 Paris Olympics, to leading India to an emphatic gold medal victory at the 2022 Asian Games, Harmanpreet’s career is a testament to perseverance and excellence.

His record-breaking 212 international goals in 241 matches make him the modern-day torchbearer of Indian hockey’s legacy.

Early life 

Harmanpreet’s love for sports started early. Born into a Sikh family, he dabbled in various games like volleyball, cricket, and football before finding his true calling in hockey at the age of 10.

His dedication led him to join the prestigious Surjit Singh Hockey Academy at 15, where he honed his skills and initially aspired to be a forward. Little did he know that his destiny lay in mastering the art of drag-flicking- a skill that would define his career.

Harmanpreet’s rise in hockey began with the junior national team, where his performances were nothing short of stellar. He made headlines by scoring nine goals in the 2014 Sultan of Johor Cup, earning the Man of the Tournament award.

His contributions were pivotal in India's victories at the 2015 Junior Asia Cup and the Junior World Cup, where he was the highest scorer.

In 2015, Harmanpreet made his senior debut, marking the beginning of a journey filled with highs and lows.

While the Rio Olympics in 2016 was a learning curve, it only fuelled his resolve to improve. Over the years, his consistency and hunger for success have made him an irreplaceable pillar of Indian hockey.

The legacy

As captain, Harmanpreet has redefined Indian hockey, leading by example both on and off the field.

He not only helped India break a 41-year Olympic medal drought in Tokyo but also won numerous accolades, including the Asian Champions Trophy and the Pro League.

He also captained the Indian men's hockey team to another Olympic medal in 2024 at the Paris Games.

His calm demeanor, coupled with his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, has earned him the nickname "Sarpanch Sahab," a tribute to his leadership qualities.

Off the field, Harmanpreet leads a fulfilling life with his wife, Amandeep Kaur, and their daughter, Ruhanat Kaur.

Despite his massive success, he remains grounded, often attributing his achievements to the support of his family and team.

A decorated icon

Harmanpreet’s list of accolades is long and illustrious.

A three-time FIH Player of the Year, recipient of the Arjuna Award, and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (he will be awarded later this month), his contributions to Indian hockey are unparalleled.

His ability to rise to the occasion, whether it’s converting crucial penalty corners or inspiring his team to victory, has cemented his legacy as a true icon of the sport.

As Harmanpreet Singh enters another year of his life, the world of hockey eagerly awaits more milestones from this maestro.

With his sights set on future tournaments, one thing is certain: Harmanpreet will continue to make India proud, one goal at a time.