IMPHAL/UKHRUL: Football fever returned to Manipur on Tuesday as the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup kicked off in Imphal with a grand opening ceremony at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, drawing thousands of fans despite heavy rain.
Organised by the Indian Armed Forces with the support of the Manipur Government, the Imphal leg of Asia’s oldest football tournament began with a colourful celebration of Manipur’s rich sporting culture, the traditions of the Indian Armed Forces and the legacy of the prestigious Durand Cup.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Losii Dikho, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Lieutenant General V.M.B. Krishnan, Spear Corps Commander Lieutenant General Girish Kalia, and several senior civil and military officials, along with representatives of participating clubs and members of the football fraternity.
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The ceremony featured a vibrant mix of cultural and military performances. Singer Silentliu Kamei performed patriotic songs, while spectators witnessed a spectacular skydiving display, a ceremonial flypast by Army helicopters and fighter aircraft, a Military Jazz Band Fusion performance, demonstrations of Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu and Chenda, a traditional Manipuri dance by students of the Manipur Government Dance College, and an impressive Thang-Ta performance showcasing the state’s indigenous martial art.
Although heavy rain lashed Imphal shortly before the event, it did little to dampen the enthusiasm of football lovers. Thousands of spectators packed the 35,000-capacity Khuman Lampak Main Stadium to witness the opening match between Manipur’s two leading clubs, TRAU FC and NEROCA FC.
The much-anticipated Manipur derby ended in a 0-0 draw after both teams failed to find the breakthrough in a closely contested encounter.
In a bid to encourage public participation, the Manipur Government declared a half-day holiday for both government offices and private establishments on Tuesday, allowing football fans to attend the opening ceremony and match.
The 135th edition of the tournament is being held from July 25 to August 23 across five host cities, Kolkata, Shillong, Imphal, Guwahati and Ranchi.
In Imphal, Khuman Lampak Main Stadium will host six group-stage matches between July 28 and August 12, with the city once again playing a key role in India’s oldest and one of its most prestigious football competitions.
The matches will be streamed live on Sony LIV and telecast on Sony Ten 5 HD and SD.
