Maneyapanda Muthanna Somaya – Olympic Gold Medallist and Indian Hockey Captain

Maneyapanda Muthanna Somaya is a distinguished former Indian field hockey player from Kodagu , Karnataka. A member of India’s national hockey team during one of the country’s important periods in international hockey, he was part of the team that won the gold medal at the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics. 

Representing India in three Olympic Games, Somaya also served as captain of the Indian hockey team at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His contribution to Indian hockey, both as a player and a leader, has earned him recognition among the prominent sporting personalities of Kodagu.

Early Life and Family Background

Muthanna Somaya was born on 8 May 1959 in Kodagu, Karnataka, into the Maneyapanda Okka.

He grew up in a family with strong roots in Kodagu, and his sporting journey eventually took him to the national and international stage.

Family

• Father: Maneyapanda Ponappa Muthanna
• Mother: Gangamma (Thamane: Codanda)
• Brother: Cariappa (Pravin)
• Wife: Shami (Thamane: Kutetira)
• Son: Harsha

Education

Somaya completed his schooling at St. Mary’s Boys’ High School in Mumbai and pursued his college education at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai.

His education in Mumbai coincided with the development of his hockey career, which eventually led to his selection for the Indian national team.

International Hockey Career

Somaya represented India in international field hockey competitions and became part of the national team during a significant period in Indian hockey.

His Olympic career extended across three consecutive editions of the Summer Olympic Games.

Moscow Olympics – 1980

One of the defining achievements of Somaya’s sporting career came at the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, where he was a member of the Indian hockey team that won the gold medal.

The victory was particularly significant in India’s Olympic hockey history, as the country returned to the top of the Olympic podium after the previous editions.

Being part of this gold-winning team remains one of the most important milestones of his career.

Los Angeles Olympics – 1984

Somaya represented India again at the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. His participation in a second Olympic Games reflected his continued place in the national team.

Seoul Olympics – 1988

At the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics, Somaya led the Indian hockey team as its captain.

India finished sixth in the competition. His appointment as captain marked an important responsibility in his international sporting career and demonstrated the leadership entrusted to him.

Representing India at three Olympic Games and captaining the national team are among the defining achievements of his career.

Awards and Recognitions

Somaya’s contribution to Indian hockey has been recognised through several honours.

• Arjuna Award: Recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award for his contribution to Indian sport.
• Lifetime Achievement Award – 2007: Honoured by the Petroleum Sports Promotion Board in recognition of his sporting career and contribution to hockey.

Professional Career

Alongside his sporting career, Somaya served with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited for more than three decades.

He continued his professional career within the organisation and eventually retired as an Executive Director.

His journey reflects the ability to balance a demanding sporting career with a long and distinguished professional life.

Legacy

Maneyapanda Muthanna Somaya holds an important place among the sporting personalities who have brought recognition to Kodagu at the national and international levels.

As a member of India’s gold-winning hockey team at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, a three-time Olympian and captain of the national team at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, he has been part of several defining moments in Indian hockey.

His achievements are a source of pride for the Maneyapanda Okka, Kodagu and the wider Kodava community. His journey from Kodagu to the Olympic stage stands as an inspiring example for aspiring sportspersons