Chandigarh, June 7, 2020 (Yes Punjab News)
The Antim Ardas of the legendary Indian Hockey Player, the triple Olympic Gold Medallist and World Cup Winning Coach Balbir Singh Senior, who passed away few days ago at the age of 97, was held today at the Sector – 36 residence of his daughter Sushbir Kaur. The path of Sri Sukhmani Sahib was recited. In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, only about 15 close relatives and near and dear ones gathered.
The solemn occasion saw Condolence Letters from International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, FIH President Narinder Batra, President of India Ram Nath Kovind, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Sports Minister Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi being sent to family.
The Senior Vice President of Punjab Olympic Association and former DGP Rajdeep Singh Gill and Sports Writer Principal Sarwan Singh paid tributes to the legend through online mode.
On the occasion, Balbir Singh’s family members and former IAS Officer Kulbir Singh Sidhu recalled the days of the legendary player at the Dev Samaj School Moga and described this great sportsperson as a good man and a source of inspiration for the people. He recalled Balbir Singh’s visit to Moga and how he had bowed before his first school.
Dr. Rajinder Kalra, a long time partner of Balbir Singh, recalled the days of 1975 World Cup and shared his memories from the camp to becoming the world champion.
Dr. Kalra said that there was sheer magic as well as a kind of magnetism in the personality of Balbir Singh that drew everybody who met him, towards him and this camaraderie kept the team together. Another Family member of Balbir Singh Dr. G.S. Randhawa also recalled the charming and extremely down to earth personality of the great player.
The Public Relations Officer Navdeep Singh Gill was also present on the occasion. Kabir Singh, grandson of Balbir Singh Senior, personally thanked those who attended persobally and those who attended the tribute via online mode from a far.
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