Assam: Durand Cup kicks off with spectacular opening ceremony, thrilling match

Guwahati: The passionate football lovers of Assam were treated to a spectacular opening ceremony of the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup’s Kokrajhar chapter on Tuesday (July 30).

Guwahati-based Defence PRO Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said that the opening ceremony witnessed over 10,000 football enthusiasts throng the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Stadium in Kokrajhar.

Thrilling aerial activities like helicopter flypasts, parachute jumps and paramotor displays by the personnel of the Indian Armed Forces added military flavour to the occasion, he said.

Cultural displays by the ‘Chenda’ drummers, ‘Chhau’ dancers and ‘Bhangra’ artists of the Armed Forces, teamed with the Bodo cultural troupe', brought colour and festivities to the inaugural event, he added.

Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief Executive Member (CEM) Pramod Boro while addressing the crowd complimented the efforts of the Armed Forces for the spectacular show and for bringing the Durand Cup back to Kokrajhar for the second consecutive year, he said.

He acknowledged the significance of the event in providing a broad platform for the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) to showcase the rich history, culture and spirit of sports and adventure in the region, he added.

Meanwhile, the inaugural match proved to be a thrilling contest between the local favourites Bodoland FC and the North East United FC. North East United FC won the match 2-0, he said.

In a demonstration of skill, stamina and teamwork, Jithin and Ankith scored one goal each for the North East United FC. Odisha FC will now play the BSF FT at the same stadium on August 3, Lt Col Rawat further said.