By Mewati Sitaram
Devindar Walmiki’s journey in field hockey is a story of perseverance, discipline, and remarkable talent. Born with a natural flair for the game, Walmiki’s love for hockey began on the dusty grounds at Cooperage ground in Mumbai, where limited resources and basic training facilities could not deter his determination. Coaches quickly recognized his potential, and through years of hard work and dedication, he steadily climbed the ranks of national-level hockey. His speed on the field, sharp reflexes, and uncanny goal-scoring ability have made him one of India’s most formidable forwards.
In a distinguished career marked by dedication and excellence, Walmiki has proudly represented India on numerous prestigious international hockey platforms. He was part of the Indian squad at the Rio Olympics in Brazil in 2016 and made history in 2018 as the first Indian player to score a goal in the European Hockey League held in Barcelona. His international accolades include a Gold medal in the Asian Champions Trophy (2016), a Silver in the FIH Champions Trophy (2016), and a Bronze in the World League Finals (2015). Walmiki has also represented India in key international tours and test series, including matches against New Zealand, Australia, Spain, and France, as well as participation in the Europe Tour (2014, 2015) and the World League Round 3 in Belgium (2015).
On the national front, Walmiki has consistently showcased top-tier performances. He has won Gold in the Hockey India Senior Men National Championship in 2024, 2023, 2021, and 2017, along with multiple Silver (2022, 2019) and Bronze (2025, 2020, 2018) medals. His recent triumphs include leading PSBP to victory at the SNBP Nehru All India Tournament in 2025, and contributing to title wins in the Mumbai Hockey Championship (2023) and Calcutta Hockey Super League with Mohun Bagan (2022). He captained Gujarat to a Bronze medal at the 36th National Games in 2022 and earned further honours at the Raja Sureshwar Das Memorial Tournament with Gold in 2023 and Silver in 2024.
In professional leagues, Walmiki has made a significant impact in the Hockey India League, securing Gold with Kalinga Lancers in 2017 and Silver with Hyderabad Toofans in 2025. Representing BPCL in the Inter Petroleum Hockey Tournament, he added several medals to his collection, including Silver in 2025, 2024, 2019, and 2018, and a Bronze in 2023.
Beyond personal achievements, Walmiki has become a mentor for young players, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, resilience, and discipline. Despite his growing fame, he remains grounded, often attributing his success to the unwavering support of his family, coaches, and local community. “Hockey taught me more than scoring goals—it taught me perseverance, humility, and the importance of giving back,” Walmiki says, summarizing the philosophy that has guided both his career and his life off the field. From humble beginnings to international recognition, Devindar Walmiki stands as an inspiring figure, showing that passion, dedication , and heart can transform talent into legacy.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
