Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Football fever gripped Manipur on Tuesday. The 135th IndianOil Durand Cup launched its Imphal leg at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium. Thousands packed the 35,000-capacity venue despite heavy rain. They watched a scoreless draw between local rivals TRAU FC and NEROCA FC.
Neither side could break the deadlock. The match finished 0-0. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla opened the tournament alongside First Lady Jyoti Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, and Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth. Officials granted a half-day holiday to government offices and private firms to boost attendance.
The ceremony showcased military and cultural grit. Performers demonstrated Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, Thang-Ta, and Chenda Melam. Students from the Manipur Government Dance College performed traditional folk dances. The Army provided a ceremonial flypast and skydiving displays. Singer Silentliu Kamei performed as a Military Jazz Band played. General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command Lieutenant General V.M.B. Krishnan and Spear Corps Commander Lieutenant General Girish Kalia attended the event.
This is Asia's oldest football tournament. It runs from July 25 to August 23 across Kolkata, Shillong, Imphal, Guwahati, and Ranchi. Imphal hosts six matches between July 28 and August 12. Group D also includes Raengdai FC and the Indian Navy Football Team. Matches stream on Sony LIV and air on Sony Ten 5. Tournament organizers describe the event as a grand celebration of sports and tradition. The final takes place at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
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