Delhi, 22 October (H.S.): As part of a series celebrating 100 years of Indian hockey, Sukhvinder Bawa on Wednesday recounted the enduring legacy of his father, Trilochan Singh Bawa, a key member of the team that won a historic gold medal at the 1948 London Olympics. Sukhvinder described his father’s medal as a profound source of inspiration for the entire family.

Trilochan Singh Bawa was a formidable full-back and a pillar of the team that secured India’s first Olympic gold as an independent nation. The victory was a momentous occasion, marked by the raising of the Indian tricolor and the playing of the national anthem at the Games for the first time.

Bawa’s contribution was critical; he scored the opening goal against Spain in the group stage and the decisive fourth goal in the final, where India defeated Great Britain at Wembley Stadium.

Reflecting on his father’s immense pride, Sukhvinder Bawa shared a quote with Hockey India: My father always said that winning the gold in London in 1948 was a monumental moment for Indian hockey and sports. The country had been independent for only a year. The feeling of pride as the team stood on the podium and the tricolor was hoisted is beyond words. He used to say he felt such pride it seemed his blazer would burst!

Sukhvinder mentioned that the medals are framed in their home and continue to inspire new generations. This legacy saw a remarkable parallel when Trilochan’s grandson, cricketer Raj Angad Singh Bawa, delivered a match-winning five-wicket haul against England in the 2022 Under-19 Cricket World Cup final.

This touching story is part of an ongoing campaign by Hockey India to honor the legendary players who have established India’s formidable presence in global sports over the past century.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar