Guwahati, August 1: The Guwahati chapter of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup commenced on Saturday with a grand opening ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, showcasing Assam’s rich cultural heritage, the traditions of the Indian Armed Forces, and the legacy of Asia’s oldest football tournament.
Organised by the Indian Armed Forces with support from the Government of Assam, the event preceded the opening Group F match between defending champions NorthEast United FC and Bodoland FC.
The ceremony was attended by Assam Sports Minister Biswajit Daimary, Finance, Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah, senior officials from the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, top Indian Army officers including Lieutenant General V. M. B. Krishnan, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, and Indian Oil Corporation Chairman Arvinder Singh Sahney, along with other civil and military dignitaries.
The celebrations began with a series of attractions, including a tethered hot-air balloon, performances by Army bands, a dog show, and a presentation highlighting the tournament’s history and trophy tour. The event featured a spectacular skydiving display, ceremonial presentation of the tournament trophies, and a combined performance by military and NCC bands.
A vibrant cultural showcase celebrated Assam’s traditions through performances of Bagurumba, Bardwi Sikhla, Bihu and Bhortal. The audience also witnessed paramotor and aeromodelling displays, an ALH helicopter flypast, Chenda drummers, Kalaripayattu demonstrations, and the iconic military presentation of Badluram Ka Badan. The ceremonial kick-off was accompanied by a flypast of a Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
The participating teams and match officials were introduced before the Chief Guest officially declared the Guwahati leg of the tournament open, marking the start of the city’s campaign in the prestigious competition.
The event underscored the Durand Cup’s growing presence in the Northeast by combining football, military tradition and the cultural identity of Assam.
Established in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia’s oldest and the world’s third-oldest surviving football tournament. The 135th edition is being held across Kolkata, Ranchi, Guwahati, Shillong and Imphal from July 25 to August 23, featuring 24 teams—including a side from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces—competing in 43 matches across six venues. Matches are being streamed live on Sony LIV and broadcast on Sony Ten 5 HD and SD.
