West Bengal Minister Dr. Indranil Khan said the 135th Durand Cup will strengthen Indian football, thanking the Indian Army and the Government of India for hosting several matches in Kolkata and West Bengal.
Kolkata Prepares to Host Matches of the 135th Durand Cup
West Bengal is set to once again become a major centre for Indian football as Kolkata prepares to host several matches of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, one of Asia’s oldest and India’s most prestigious football tournaments.
Speaking on the occasion, West Bengal Minister Dr. Indranil Khan said football remains the most loved sport in the state and expressed gratitude to the Indian Army and the Government of India for selecting Kolkata and West Bengal as key venues for the tournament.
He said hosting the competition would further strengthen the state’s rich footballing tradition while encouraging greater public support for Indian football.
Focus Shifts from International Football to Domestic Competition
Dr. Khan noted that football fans in West Bengal passionately follow international tournaments, often supporting teams such as Argentina, Brazil, Spain and Portugal during the FIFA World Cup.
However, he emphasised that attention has now shifted towards Indian football and the country’s premier football competitions.
He said the Durand Cup provides an important platform to celebrate domestic football while giving fans the opportunity to support Indian clubs and emerging talent.
Indian Army’s Role in Promoting Football Appreciated
The minister praised the Indian Army, which organises the Durand Cup, for continuing to promote football through the historic tournament.
He thanked the Army and the Government of India for choosing Kolkata and other venues in West Bengal to host several matches, describing the decision as an important step in encouraging the growth of football in the region.
The Durand Cup has long played a significant role in the development of Indian football by bringing together top clubs, players and supporters from across the country.
Bengal’s Rich Football Legacy
West Bengal has traditionally been regarded as one of India’s football strongholds, with Kolkata home to some of the country’s most successful and widely supported football clubs.
The state has consistently hosted major domestic and international football events, drawing enthusiastic crowds and nurturing generations of talented footballers.
Hosting matches of the 135th Durand Cup is expected to further reinforce Kolkata’s status as a leading football destination while boosting interest in the domestic game.
Tournament Expected to Boost Fan Engagement
The 135th edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup is expected to attract large crowds and provide a platform for clubs and players to showcase their talent.
Officials believe the tournament will not only promote competitive football but also inspire young players and strengthen grassroots interest in the sport across the region.
Key Takeaways
- Kolkata and West Bengal will host several matches of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup.
- West Bengal Minister Dr. Indranil Khan said football remains the state’s favourite sport.
- He thanked the Indian Army and the Government of India for selecting West Bengal as a host.
- The minister said the focus has shifted from international football to supporting Indian football and the Durand Cup.
- The tournament is expected to strengthen football culture and fan engagement in the state.
FAQs
What did Dr. Indranil Khan say about the Durand Cup?
He said football is the favourite sport in West Bengal and thanked the Indian Army and the Government of India for hosting several Durand Cup matches in the state.
Why is the Durand Cup significant?
The Durand Cup is one of Asia’s oldest football tournaments and is regarded as one of India’s premier domestic football competitions.
Who organises the Durand Cup?
The tournament is organised by the Indian Army.
Why is Kolkata an important venue for Indian football?
Kolkata has a rich football heritage, passionate supporters and is home to some of India’s most successful football clubs, making it a key centre for the sport.
