The much-awaited 132nd edition of the Durand Cup has embarked on its journey in Kokrajhar, Assam, heralding a momentous chapter in Indian football history. The prestigious annual football competition witnessed a spectacular opening ceremony graced by the presence of Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh. This marked the first instance of the Durand Cup’s inauguration in the vibrant city of Kokrajhar.
The esteemed event, organized by the Armed Forces and bolstered by the support of the Government of Assam, captured the collective spirit of football enthusiasts and players alike. The grand opening ceremony, held at the Sai Stadium, resonated with the celebratory energy that surrounds the tournament each year.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd that gathered for the event, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the diligent efforts of the Armed Forces and the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) in creating an atmosphere conducive to hosting the Durand Cup in Kokrajhar. He acknowledged the profound football fervor in the Northeastern region and deemed football as more than a mere sport—it’s an emotion that unites communities.
Highlighting Assam’s contribution to the football landscape, Shri Rajnath Singh expressed his optimism that the Durand Cup would inspire the youth to embrace football with newfound vigor, nurturing the rich talent pool that Assam has consistently produced.
Assam Chief Minister Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma took the stage to honor the deep-rooted sports culture of the region. He extended his best wishes to all participating teams and acknowledged the Indian Army’s pivotal role in organizing the tournament in Kokrajhar. Sarma also expressed gratitude to the BTC for their unwavering support.
The opening ceremony, a visual spectacle witnessed by nearly 12,000 football enthusiasts from various corners of the state and beyond, featured captivating displays including a flypast by Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft and Mi-17 helicopter, martial exhibitions, Gatka, Bhangra performances, and an enchanting Bodo cultural dance by a local troupe.
Dignitaries including Minister of Power, Sports, and Youth Welfare, Cooperation & ITFC (Archaeology), Assam Smt Nandita Gorlosa; Minister of Handloom & Textile, Soil Conservation & Welfare of Bodoland Shri Urkhao Gwra Brahma; Chief Executive Member, BTC Shri Pramod Boro; Chief of the Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande; GOC-in-C Eastern Command Lt Gen RP Kalita; AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command Air Marshal SP Dharkar; General Officer Commanding, Gajraj Corps Lt Gen Manish Erry; General Officer Commanding, Red Horns Division Maj Gen S Murugesan, and President, All India Football Federation Shri Kalyan Chaubey graced the occasion with their presence.
The inaugural ceremony seamlessly transitioned into the opening match of the tournament, pitting Bodoland FC against Rajasthan United FC. Kokrajhar is set to host a total of eight group matches and one quarter-final, scheduled for August 24, 2023. With a vibrant lineup of 24 teams, including representation from Nepal and Bangladesh, along with the Indian Armed Forces and the local team Bodoland FC, the tournament promises a thrilling showcase of football prowess across three venues in Kolkata, Guwahati, and Kokrajhar.
