Imphal Welcomes Durand Cup After 2 Years with Trophy Roadshow

The Durand Cup returned to Imphal with a grand trophy tour, marking its 134th edition. Six matches will be held, starting July 30 at Khuman Lampak Stadium.

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PratidinTime Sports Desk
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Imphal Welcomes Durand Cup After 2 Years with Trophy Roadshow

The 134th edition of the prestigious IndianOil Durand Cup made a triumphant return to Imphal, marking a significant moment in Manipur’s sporting calendar. After a two-year hiatus, Asia’s oldest football tournament rekindled its historic ties with the football-loving state with a spectacular trophy tour through the heart of the capital.

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The three iconic trophies of the Durand Cup — the original Durand Cup, the rolling Shimla Trophy (instituted by residents of Shimla in 1904), and the President’s Cup, which is permanently awarded to the winners — were unveiled at a glittering ceremony at the City Convention Centre.

The event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as Chief Guest. He was joined by Chief Secretary Shri Prashant Kumar Singh (IAS), senior defence officials including Lt. Gen. Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman of the Durand Cup Organising Committee; Lt. Gen. Abhijit S. Pendharkar AVSM YSM, GOC 3 Corps; Maj. Gen. S.S. Karthikeya YSM SM, GOC 57 Mountain Division; Maj. Gen. Ravroop Singh YSM SM, IG Assam Rifles (South); and Shri Rajiv Singh IPS, DGP Manipur.

Imphal Welcomes Durand Cup After 2 Years with Trophy Roadshow

A Celebration of Football and Identity

In his address, Governor Bhalla hailed the return of the Durand Cup to Imphal as a “testament to Manipur’s deep-rooted passion for football and sporting excellence.” Applauding the Indian Army, especially the Eastern Command, for bringing the event back to Manipur, he remarked, “Sports are an integral part of our state’s identity. Manipur has consistently produced national heroes and Olympians who have made the country proud. I wish the 134th edition of the Durand Cup great success and hope it inspires young hearts across the region.”

Lt. Gen. Mohit Malhotra echoed this sentiment, noting the tournament's evolution. “For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has shaped Indian football, uniting communities and inspiring generations. Under Eastern Command's stewardship, the tournament has grown in stature, professionalism, and reach. I invite the people of Manipur to be part of this rich legacy.”

Lt. Gen. Abhijit S. Pendharkar highlighted the Cup's historical roots and symbolic significance. “The Durand Cup is more than a football tournament — it is a living tribute to the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the people of India. Its return to Manipur honours that connection, and celebrates resilience, unity, and the beautiful game.”

Trophy Tour Sparks Excitement Across Imphal Valley

The day began with a vibrant roadshow that saw the trophies travel across key locations: Sendra, Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong War Cemetery, and Lamlong Bazar, culminating at the City Convention Centre.

A major highlight of the event was the presence of eight women footballers from Manipur who recently helped India qualify for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asia Cup. Among them were national captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi, and Lynda Serto Kom, who participated in the flag-off ceremony — symbolising the state’s unmatched contribution to Indian football.

Matches Set to Begin July 30

Imphal will host six matches of the 134th Durand Cup, with the first match scheduled for July 30 at Khuman Lampak Stadium. Local favourites NEROCA FC and TRAU FC are set to face off in a much-anticipated Manipur Derby. Also grouped with them are Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team.

About the Durand Cup

Established in 1888 in Shimla, the Durand Cup is the oldest football tournament in Asia and the third-oldest in the world. Traditionally held in New Delhi for decades, the tournament found a new home in 2019 under the Eastern Command, which repositioned it in the football heartland of eastern India. Since then, the event has grown into a multi-city spectacle, with this year's edition taking place across five states — West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur.

The Durand Cup stands apart for awarding not one but three trophies — the original Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President’s Cup — underscoring its rich tradition and unmatched legacy in Indian football.

As Imphal once again prepares to host the legendary tournament, excitement runs high, with fans and players alike ready to celebrate football, tradition, and sporting spirit.

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