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Hockey India teams up with Yashraj Mukhate for inspiring anthem for 2024 Paris Olympics
Mumbai: Hockey India, in an unprecedented initiative, has collaborated with music producer and social media sensation Yashraj Mukhate to create a special anthem to cheer on the Indian Men’s Hockey Team as they compete for top honours at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The anthem, a vibrant and energetic tribute, encapsulates the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among Indian hockey players, uniting fans and players alike in their common goal of bringing joy and pride to the nation.
The anthem, which beautifully captures the essence of hockey and the dedication of the players, aims to rekindle the nation’s passion for the sport and bolster the Indian hockey team’s morale. The initiative reflects Hockey India’s continuous support for the team, emphasizing the importance of national pride and unity as the team progresses through the tournament.
Indian Men’s Hockey Team Captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed his excitement about the anthem, stating, “This anthem truly resonates with the spirit of our team. It’s amazing to see the support from Hockey India and the entire nation. It motivates us to give our best on the field and make our country proud.”
Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh added, “The anthem is a fantastic way to energize and connect with our fans back home. It’s a reminder of the support we have and the dreams we carry with us. We are grateful to Hockey India and Yashraj Mukhate for this incredible gesture.”
The Indian team, placed in Group B, has shown remarkable performance in their Paris Olympics campaign so far. They began with a thrilling 3-2 victory against New Zealand, followed by an intense 1-1 draw with Argentina. Their latest triumph, a 2-0 win over Ireland, helped them secure their place in the Quarter-Finals, making them one of the first two teams to reach this stage at the Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, Yashraj Mukhate, known for his innovative musical creations, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “I was thrilled to finally get the opportunity to create something outside the usual humorous zone that people often associate with my work. This song required crafting a beat that was patriotic, energetic, and motivational without being dull. I relished the challenge and found it incredibly rewarding. Moreover, it was a great honour to contribute something to our Indian Hockey Team.”
Yashraj, who began his music career by sharing original compositions and mashups on social media, has garnered a substantial following with 5.2 million subscribers on YouTube and 2.5 million followers on Instagram. His unique style and creative approach have made him a household name, and his involvement in this project brings fresh and dynamic energy to the anthem.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
