Bhubaneswar: ‘Hockey Hai Zindegi’ (Hockey Is Life), a book on the struggle of tribal hockey players of Odisha was released by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday.
The book was released at a function orgainsed by the National Yuva Cooperative Society Limited.
Written by noted sports journalist Satyendra Pal Singh, the book is about the life and struggle of Odia tribal hockey players who have found berth in national team. Besides, their excellent performance in national and international matches despite hurdles has been featured in the book.
Singh also mentioned in the book that like Punjab, Odisha has similar contributions towards the Indian hockey.
“When international level events are being organised in Odisha, remembering contribution of Odia tribal hockey players towards the game is praiseworthy. I would request Singh to publish the book in English and Odia as well to encourage future generation,” Pradhan added.
Meanwhile, Singh said the hockey players are reluctant to speak on their experience. “The way these tribal young girls and boys are doing hard work, they will dominate the game in the coming days,” he added.
India hockey team captain Manpreet Singh and other players were also felicitated at the function.