Rio Olympics is round the corner and the sports fraternity all over the world is anxiously waiting for the mega event to start. Here in India, too, people are hoping for the best from the over 100-member contingent to bring glory to the nation. However, coming as a shock in between is the sad demise of hockey legend Mohammad Shahid, whose artistry with the stick was revered by one and all.

"We have lost an icon, a pillar of Indian hockey. This is a great loss,” said legendary Dhanraj Pillay, who himself idolised Mohammed Shahid.
Mohammed Shahid (1960-2016) breathed his last on July 20 at Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, owing to his severe liver condition and kidney failure. This multi-organ failure claimed his life. He was 56. He used to cast a spell on many with his incredible speed and exceptional talent to dribble the ball with rare sorcery.

“Shahid and Zafar were a treat to watch. They were skillful and fast down the left. Zafar's breakneck pace and Shahid’s dribble and guile gave Indian fans of that era a treasure trove of memories,” sai Somaya, who played three Olympics with Shahid and one of the many under his spell.
Shahid was awarded the 'Best Forward Player' trophy at 1980 Champions Trophy in Karachi and was honoured with Arjuna Award in 1980-81 and Padma Shri in 1986.

Tears have been oozing out of everyone's eyes and tributes have been pouring in from all the corners of the world. He is etched in memories of all, forever because of his mesmerising presence on the hockey field.