Balbir Senior, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, died Monday morning at a private hospital in Mohali. -- Agencies
New Delhi - India's President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with leading sports personalities express their grief at the passing away of the three-time Olympic gold medallist.
Published: Mon 25 May 2020, 2:47 PM
Last updated: Mon 25 May 2020, 6:30 PM
India's President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with leading sports personalities on Monday expressed grief at the passing away of legendary hockey player Balbir Singh Senior.
Balbir Senior, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, died Monday morning at a private hospital in Mohali. Balbir, 96, was undergoing treatment at Fortis Mohali 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 Medalist, 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," said President Kovind on Twitter.
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."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his tributes and said: "Pained to learn about the demise of Padma Shri Balbir Singh Sr ji, a legendary hockey player, who left indelible imprint on world hockey with his stick. I was fortunate to have met the lively and joyful Balbir ji, a three time Olympic gold medallist. My condolences to his family."
"Deeply saddened by the tragic demise of India's legendary Hockey Player - Balbir Singh Sr. He was part of India's gold medal winning team at 1948 London, 1952 Helsinki & 1956 Melbourne Olympics. I pay my heartfelt tribute and pray for the eternal peace of the departed soul," said Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju.
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 Senior. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this time of sorrow."
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also expressed his grief.
"My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Balbir Singh ji Sr. He was one of the greatest to have graced the game of hockey. May his soul Rest in Peace!," Tendulkar said in a tweet on his handle.
Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra referred to Balbir as a role model and tweeted: "Saddened to hear of the demise of one of India's most celebrated Olympians, Balbir Singh Sr. Athletes and role models like him come very rarely, and it was an honour to know him, and I hope his example will continue to inspire athletes from around the world."
India hockey goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh also took to social media to condole the demise of the legend and said: "I was shocked to hear the news of legendary Olympian Balbir Singh Sr untimely demise. My heartfelt condolences to his family. I pray the almighty gives his family strength to withstand this tragic moment. May his soul rest in peace."
Legendary runner P.T. Usha wrote on her Twitter handle: "Deeply saddened to hear the passing of Balbir Singh Sr ji. An athlete par excellence and a role model beyond words. His bestowed hands may strengthen my passions more. My condolences to his family, friends and fans."
Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri also paid his last respects and wrote on his Twitter handle: "Balbir Singh ji - A true giant and a half in his field. Hockey legend out and out. Condolences."
Balbir Senior was the most decorated athlete in Indian sports history with Olympic medals in 1948, 1952 and 1956 Summer Games. He coached the Indian team which won the bronze medal at the 1971 World Cup and was manager of the Indian team that won the gold medal at the 1975 World Cup.
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