India bids farewell to Dr. Vece Paes, a decorated Olympian, passionate sportsman, and respected administrator, who passed away at the age of 80. Known for his achievements on and off the field, he leaves behind a legacy that spans decades and disciplines.
🏑 The Athlete
Dr. Paes was a midfielder in the Indian hockey team that won a bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics — a highlight in Indian hockey’s storied history. A charismatic presence on the field, he was part of the generation that upheld India’s hockey legacy on the world stage.
🩺 The Scholar and Healer
After retiring from hockey, Paes went on to become a sports medicine specialist, serving as a medical consultant for the Asian Cricket Council, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and other major sports organizations. He was instrumental in promoting anti-doping education and modern sports science in India.
🏆 The Leader
Dr. Paes held leadership roles across Indian sport — he served as President of the Indian Rugby Football Union (1996–2002) and also presided over the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club, one of the oldest clubs in the world.
👨👦 The Father and Mentor
Dr. Paes was also the proud father of Leander Paes, India’s tennis icon and Olympic bronze medallist. Their bond went beyond family, with Leander often citing his father as his “inspiration and best friend.” A touching moment was captured when Dr. Paes made a surprise video for his son after a Grand Slam win — filled with humor, pride, and gentle prodding about retirement.
“You’ve impressed us,” he said, “but when are you retiring?”
Leander, visibly moved, responded, “That’s the first time he’s said I impressed him.”
🕊️ A Nation Mourns
Dr. Paes had been battling advanced Parkinson’s disease and was admitted to a city hospital earlier this week before his peaceful passing. Hockey India mourned the loss, calling him “an unshakable pillar of Indian sports.”
His contributions were not just to Indian hockey, but to the broader sporting ecosystem — a rare blend of excellence in competition, innovation in medicine, and integrity in administration.
🙏 Rest in power, Dr. Vece Paes.
Your legacy will continue through every athlete you mentored, every cause you championed, and every Indian who takes pride in sport.
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