Kolkata, often called the Mecca of Football, witnessed the grand opening of the 134th Durand Cup on Wednesday. This is Asia's oldest and most prestigious football tournament, and it commenced with a colorful program at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium).
Durand Cup 2025: The 134th edition of the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, began on Wednesday at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) with a grand ceremony filled with cultural diversity. Following the opening ceremony, East Bengal FC defeated South United FC 5-0 in the first match (Group A), marking a victorious start to the tournament.
Mamata Banerjee Inaugurated the Tournament
The Durand Cup 2025 was inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with a symbolic kick. Several state government ministers – Arup Biswas, Sujit Bose, and Manoj Tiwary – were also present on this occasion. Representing the Indian Army at this grand ceremony were Lt. Gen Ram Chandra Tiwari, former Command Chief; Lt. Gen Mohit Malhotra (Patron, Durand Cup Organising Committee); Major General Rajesh Arun Moge (Chairman); Major General Vijaykumar R. Jagtap (Vice Chairman); and General Officer Commanding, 59 Infantry Division. Additionally, the Nepal Army was represented by Major General Dhruv Prakash Shah.
Cultural Presentations Showcased India's Diversity
The opening ceremony offered a glimpse into India's cultural heritage. The program began with Bengal's famous Baul music – a folk tradition that beautifully blends devotion, philosophy, and music. This was followed by dance and physical skill performances by various military regiments from across the country:
- "Jhang Pataka" dance by the Maratha Light Infantry
- Krav Maga demonstration by the Rajputana Rifles
- Display of balance and endurance by the Assam Regimental Centre
- Traditional Bhangra by the Sikh Regiment
- Khukuri dance by the 5 Gorkha Rifles
- Gatka by the Sikh Light Infantry
- Grand fusion presentation by all units with NCC Cadets
These cultural performances became a symbol of India's diversity, unity, and military tradition.
Helicopter Fly-Past Was the Attraction of the Ceremony
- The most exciting glimpse of this spectacular opening ceremony was the fly-past by the Army Aviation Wing.
- The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) unfurled the Indian tricolor from a height.
- Two Cheetah helicopters waved the flags of Eastern Command and the Durand Cup, respectively.
- This scene was thrilling for the audience present and also went viral on social media.
- At half-time, the melodious tunes of the Army Pipe Band filled the entire stadium with patriotism and enthusiasm.
Opening Match: East Bengal Made a Dazzling Start
In the opening match played after the ceremony, East Bengal FC defeated their rival South United FC 5-0 in a one-sided contest. This match was played under Group A. East Bengal adopted an aggressive stance from the first minute and gave South United no chance. The goalscorers thrilled the audience with excellent coordination and strategic passing.
Kolkata is not called the Mecca of Football for nothing. With the hosting of a prestigious tournament like the Durand Cup, this city has once again become the center of Indian football. The enthusiasm of the audience throughout the stadium, traditional music, military prowess, and sportsmanship made the event memorable.
