135th IndianOil Durand Cup Opens in Grand Style with Spectacular Ceremony and Kolkata Derby
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
Kolkata, July 25: The 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament and the world’s third-oldest surviving football competition, officially commenced on Saturday with a magnificent opening ceremony at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. Organised by the Indian Armed Forces with the support of the Government of West Bengal, the grand event showcased India’s rich cultural diversity, military traditions, and the vibrant heritage of West Bengal before the much-awaited Kolkata Derby between East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Indranil Khan, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Services & Sports and Consumer Affairs, Government of West Bengal; Tapas Roy, Minister for Industry; Dilip Ghosh, Minister for Panchayat & Rural Development; Dr. Sharadwat Mukherjee, Minister for Health & Family Welfare; Lieutenant General V. M. B. Krishnan, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command; Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, Chief of Staff, Eastern Command; Major General Dinesh Kumar Singh, General Officer Commanding, Bengal Sub Area, along with senior military officials, government representatives, football administrators, participating clubs, sponsors, and members of the football fraternity.
A Tribute to India’s Martial Heritage
The opening ceremony began with an impressive tribute to the traditions of the Indian Armed Forces. Spectators witnessed spectacular performances of the Khukri Dance, Gatka, Seraikella Chhau, Kalaripayattu, Jhanjh Pathak, along with demonstrations of Krav Maga and the North-East Warriors, highlighting India’s rich martial legacy.
West Bengal’s Cultural Excellence on Display
The cultural segment, specially curated by the Government of West Bengal, captivated the audience with performances of Rabindrasangeet, compositions by Dwijendralal Ray, Baul music, Srikhol, vibrant tribal dances accompanied by Dhamsa and Madol, the iconic Purulia Chhau depicting Mahisasur Mardini, and an all-women Dhak ensemble celebrating the spirit of the upcoming Durga Puja. The programme concluded with a grand cultural fusion symbolising India’s unity in diversity.
Honouring 138 Years of Football Legacy
One of the major highlights of the evening was the ceremonial Trophy Drill, featuring the tournament’s three prestigious trophies—the Durand Cup, the President’s Cup, and the Simla Trophy. A specially produced audio-visual presentation then narrated the remarkable 138-year history of the Durand Cup and its immense contribution to Indian football.
The official match ball was ceremonially brought onto the field, followed by the march-past of the Eastern Command Flag, the Durand Cup Flag, and the AIFF Fair Play Flag, symbolising excellence, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Celebrating Inclusivity
In a touching gesture, the players were accompanied onto the field by children from the ASHA School run by Eastern Command, children from the Barrackpur Avenue Women’s Cultural and Social Welfare Society, and children of serving soldiers. The initiative highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to social inclusion and community engagement.
The dignitaries were introduced to the players and match officials before a spectacular Army helicopter flypast carrying the National Flag and the Durand Cup Flag, providing a memorable aerial salute to the tournament’s opening.
Tournament Officially Declared Open
Dr. Indranil Khan formally declared the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup open and performed the ceremonial kick-off alongside the participating teams and match officials. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph featuring the dignitaries, players, and the tournament’s three iconic trophies before Indian football’s greatest rivalry resumed as East Bengal FC faced Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the tournament-opening Kolkata Derby.
Five Cities, 24 Teams, One Historic Trophy
Founded in 1888, the Durand Cup continues to be one of India’s most prestigious football competitions, bringing together top clubs, Services teams, and international participation.
The 135th IndianOil Durand Cup will be held from July 25 to August 23, 2026, across Kolkata, Ranchi, Guwahati, Shillong, and Imphal. The tournament features 24 teams, including a foreign contingent representing the Sri Lankan Armed Forces, competing in 43 matches across six venues.
Football fans can watch all the action live on Sony LIV, while television coverage will be available on Sony Ten 5 HD and SD channels.
