Mohammad Shahid Biography

 Mohammad Shahid, often referred to as "The Magician of Hockey," was a legendary Indian field hockey player. He was born on April 14, 1960, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Shahid was known for his exceptional dribbling skills, lightning-fast speed, and mesmerizing stickwork, which made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the history of the sport.

Shahid's passion for hockey began at a young age, and he quickly rose through the ranks, representing his school and state teams. In 1979, he made his debut for the Indian national team and went on to become a key player for the side during the 1980s.

His breakthrough moment came in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, where Shahid played a crucial role in helping India win the gold medal. He showcased his incredible dribbling skills throughout the tournament, leaving opponents stunned and spectators in awe. Shahid's performance in the final against Spain, where he scored two goals, including the winning goal, cemented his status as a hockey icon.

Over the course of his career, Shahid represented India in numerous international tournaments, including the World Cup and Champions Trophy. He was known for his ability to navigate through tight spaces and glide past defenders effortlessly. Shahid's style of play was often compared to that of the legendary Pakistani player, Shahbaz Ahmed.

Despite facing various injuries, Shahid continued to excel on the field, earning accolades and admiration from fans and experts alike. He received the Arjuna Award in 1981 and the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian awards, in 1986 for his contributions to the sport.

Tragically, Shahid's career was cut short by a severe leg injury in 1986, which forced him to retire prematurely at the age of 26. However, his impact on the sport and his influence on future generations of hockey players cannot be overstated.

After retiring, Shahid served as a coach and mentor to young players, sharing his knowledge and experience. He also worked as a sports officer in the Indian Railways. Shahid's life and career were immortalized in the 2016 Bollywood film "Azhar," where he was portrayed by actor Varun Dhawan.

On July 20, 2016, Mohammad Shahid passed away at the age of 56 due to multiple organ failure at a hospital in Gurgaon, Haryana, leaving behind a legacy that will always be remembered in the world of hockey. His incredible skills, artistry, and sportsmanship continue to inspire aspiring hockey players, and he remains an unforgettable figure in Indian sports history.