India’s national sport, Hockey, gained popularity after the movie ‘Chak De India’. Somewhere along the way, people had lost their interest in this sport. But now, with hockey making its way into people’s hearts, Odisha is building India’s largest hockey stadium in Rourkela. It will be called the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium. And with the 2023 Hockey World Cup in sight, we have arrived in Bhubaneswar at Kalinga Stadium to witness it.
The Largest Hockey Stadium In India
In 2023, Bhubaneshwar’s Kalinga Hockey Stadium is hosting the World Cup. In 2018, this stadium was renovated and increased its capacity to fifteen thousand spectators. The stadium is a perfect place to host this year’s semi-finals and finals, as it is regarded as one of the finest hockey stadiums. Some time back, players from Odisha had to go to Kolkata to practice hockey. But today, the state has two of the world’s best stadiums – The Kalinga Hockey Stadium and The Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium.
Sundergarh is known for its hockey craze. Interestingly, this place has given India some of the best hockey players like Dilip Tirkey, Michael Kindo, Prabodh Tirkey, Amit Rohidas, Nilam Sanjeep, and many others.
The Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium is the largest in India. The government of Odisha has built this magnificent stadium in just one year, especially for the World Cup. The stadium is named after the freedom fighter Birsa Munda and can hold up to twenty thousand spectators. Moreover, the place has state-of-the-art facilities with a gym, swimming pool, cafes, etc.
The Hockey World Cup 2023
This year’s mascot is Olly, a tribute to the Olive Ridley Turtle which is native to the shores of Odisha. They also have Olly’s Land where this mascot has a place of its own. India vs Wales match was a spine-chilling treat with India winning the face-off. Now that is a match that we would like to see.
Also Read: Ice Hockey Stadium Is Set To Turn Manali Into A Winter Sports Paradise!
This was India’s contribution to its national sport. Imagine the feeling of hockey fans cheering for their team at this stadium in India. Tell us what you think of it in the comments below.
Cover Image Courtesy: Curly Tales