Arguably, 26 May 1928 was the golden day for Indian hockey. It was on that day, while still under British rule, that the Indian team won the hockey gold medal at the Amsterdam Olympics. Much of the credit for this victory goes to the legendary Dhyan Chand, whose breathtaking performance proved decisive. Exactly 98 years later, hockey players, including Dhyan Chand’s son, Ashok Kumar, along with writers, fans, and others gathered at a hotel just outside Delhi’s hockey nursery, Shivaji Stadium, for the launch of well-known hockey historian K. Arumugam’s new book, India’s First Olympic Gold. She also wrote the foreword.

It tells the inspiring story of India's first Olympic gold medal win in hockey at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. Launched by Indian Olympic Association president P.T. Usha, this book is a wonderful tribute to the players who brought glory to a nation still under British rule.
The book takes readers back to 1928. India was not yet independent, but its hockey team showed the world what Indian talent could do. The journey was not easy. The team faced many problems before even reaching the Olympics. There were fights over player selection, money troubles, and disagreements inside the hockey groups in India. Many players had to pay their own way or depend on help from others. Despite these hurdles, a strong team came together.
At the centre of the story is the legendary Dhyan Chand, known as the "Wizard" or "Magician" of hockey. His stick work was so magical that people said it was not hockey but pure magic. In one match, the Dutch even broke his stick to check if there was a magnet inside! Dhyan Chand scored 14 goals in just five matches and became India's first big international sports hero. The book shows how his skill and determination helped the team shine.
The final match on 26 May 1928 against the host nation, the Netherlands, was special. India won 3-0 and took home the gold. This was not just a win for India. It was the first Olympic gold for all of Asia. The victory gave colonised India a new sense of pride and identity. For the first time, Indians stood tall on the world stage through sports.
Arumugam fills the book with rare old pictures, newspaper cuttings from that time, and useful facts. Readers learn about the full team, including captain Jaipal Singh and other heroes like Richard Allen, who did not let in a single goal. The book also talks about smaller details like players playing with fever, injuries, and a reduced squad in the final. These stories show the real courage of the team.
One of the best things about the book is how it connects the 1928 win to India's bigger hockey story. India went on to win gold in the next few Olympics too, building a golden era. Arumugam explains how this success helped build national pride and inspired future generations.
The writing is clear and easy to follow. Arumugam writes like a storyteller, not just a historian. He mixes facts with exciting moments from matches. Readers feel the tension of selection fights, the joy of victories, and the pride of the final win. Even people who do not know much about hockey will enjoy it. The book is perfect for sports lovers, students, and anyone interested in Indian history.
At a time when Indian sports is growing fast, this book reminds us of our roots. It shows that success comes from hard work, unity, and belief, even when resources are low. The players of 1928 did not have modern facilities or big sponsors, but they had heart and skill. Their story can motivate today's athletes.
K. Arumugam collected stories that were scattered in old records and brought them together in one place. This book will help new generations understand and respect India's hockey legacy.
Finally, India's First Olympic Gold is an important and enjoyable read. It celebrates not only a sports victory but also the spirit of a young nation finding its voice. Anyone who loves India and its sports should pick up this book. It leaves you feeling proud and inspired.

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