Guwahati: In a stirring celebration of sport and spirit, Assam’s Kokrajhar district on Tuesday (July 15) hosted the prestigious trophy display ceremony of the 134th edition of the Indian Oil Durand Cup — Asia’s oldest and most revered football tournament.
The iconic trio of trophies — the original Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy (a rolling trophy presented by the citizens of Shimla in 1904), and the coveted President’s Cup (retained permanently by the winners) — were showcased at the Bodofa Cultural Complex, Kokrajhar, amidst an atmosphere brimming with excitement and local pride.
Assam’s Minister for Sports & Youth Welfare, Nandita Gorlosa, graced the occasion as chief guest, underscoring the state’s commitment to youth development and sporting excellence.
She was joined by senior military dignitaries, including Major General H.S. Bajaj, Major General Rajesh Arun Moghe, and Major General Rohin Bawa, highlighting the Indian Army’s vital role in organizing the historic tournament.
This marks Kokrajhar’s third consecutive year as a host city for the Durand Cup. The SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar is set to host six matches, affirming the region’s growing prominence in national football.
With the participation of celebrated clubs like Bodoland FC, Punjab FC, and an exciting line-up of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Football Team and Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC, the Bodoland region is set to witness electrifying encounters that promise to unite fans.
The 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup is being held across six venues in five states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur.
The grand Opening Ceremony of the 134th Indian Oil Durand Cup in Kokrajhar is scheduled to take place on July 27, 2025, at the SAI Stadium, promising a vibrant display of local culture, military precision, and football fervour.
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The event will set the stage for the tournament’s first clash in the city — a much-anticipated showdown between the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Football Team and Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC.
