The 133rd Durand Cup commenced in Kokrajhar with an exhilarating opening ceremony at the SAI Stadium, marking a grand beginning to one of Asia’s oldest football tournaments.
The ceremonial kick-off was conducted by the Chief Guest Lalnghinglova, Minister of State for Sports and Youth Services Department Govt of Mizoram and Chairman League of Committee of AIFF, in the august presence of Guest of Honour, Dr. Lotay Tshering, Former PM Bhutan, Pramod Boro, Chief Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council, Assam, Rajesh Nambiar, ED IOCL, Lieutenant Ram Chander Tiwari, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command and Patron, Durand Cup Organizing Committee, Air Marshal SP Dharkar, AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command, Lieutenant General RC Srikanth,COS, Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organizing Committee and Lieutenant General Manish Erry, GOC, 4 Corps, Major General Rajesh Arun Moghe,GOC, Bengal Sub Area, Vice Chairman Durand Cup Organizing Committee, Major General Vishal Singh, GOC, 21 Division, and other BTC Members and Eminent civil & Military dignitaries.
The stadium witnessed a massive crowd of more than 12,000 people. The enthusiastic crowd was treated to a spectacular opening ceremony, beginning with a breathtaking skydiving display by the elite 11 Para Special Forces and Army Adventure Wing followed by a mesmerizing fly-past by the Army Aviation Helicopters. The crowd also witnessed Paramotors Aero Model Display and Hot Air Ballon Display.
Following the aerial displays, attendees enjoyed a vibrant cultural performance, highlighting India’s diverse heritage. The cultural showcase included a fusion of military and local dances, featuring Chenda, Kalaripayattu, Bhangra, Chhau, Bihu, Bagarumba, and Dima Hasao dance, alongside performances by the renowned 12 Grenadiers Jazz Band, Brass Band of 13 Grenadiers & Eastern Air Command. The spectators were further thrilled by a Dog show and the most loved regimental song of Assam Regiment‘Badlu Ram’.
Pramod Boro, the Chief Executive Member of BTC, Assam, remarked, “The Durand Cup is a testament to the enduring legacy of football in our nation and it is an honor for Kokrajhar and the entire Bodoland region to host this prestigious tournament. We are immensely grateful to the Indian Army and the organizing committee for their unwavering support. This event will not only boost the morale of our young athletes but also provide them with an opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage. Let us celebrate this occasion by coming together to support our teams, including the Bodoland team, which will be competing against the Northeast team today and create lasting memories.”
The opening match North East United FC from Guwahati clinch victory over local side Bodoland FC as goals from Jithin MS and Ankith in the second-half gave the Indian Super League side all three points in Group E, setting the stage for an exciting competition in Kokrajhar.
Kokrajhar hosts Group E, which includes ISL sides North East United FC and FC Goa, local side Bodoland FC and Border Security Force Football Team.
