Imphal, July 11: The city of Imphal welcomed the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour, as Asia’s oldest football tournament returned to Manipur’s capital after a gap of two years.
The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased at the City Convention Centre in the presence of Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who was the Chief Guest of the event.
Also present were Prashant Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, and senior military leadership including Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra, AVSM, SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee; Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps; Major General SS Karthikeya, YSM, SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division; Major General Ravroop Singh, YSM, SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South); and Rajiv Singh, Director General of Police, Manipur.
The three glittering pieces of silverware—the Durand Cup (the original prize), the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), and the President’s Cup (which the winners keep permanently)—were unveiled during the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Bhalla said hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state’s deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. “I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command, for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state’s identity,” he said.
Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way.”
Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra said the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach, and quality.
“I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation,” he said.
Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar said the Durand Cup is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organised under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship.
“I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup—the oldest football tournament in Asia—being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur, a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football”, he said.
The trophy tour began in the morning from Sendra. It passed through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery), and Lamlong Bazar before culminating at the City Convention Centre.
Eight members of the Women’s National Football Team from Manipur— including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, and Lynda Serto Kom—who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asia Cup, were also present at the flag-off of the roadshow.
Six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled for July 30 at the Khuman Lampak Stadium, featuring local sides North Eastern Re-Organising Cultural Association (NEROCA FC) and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC) in a highly anticipated Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are the other sides in the group.
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