President Murmu flags off iconic Durand Cup trophies

President Droupadi Murmu flagged off the Durand Cup trophies marking the start of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup. The prestigious tournament begins on July 23, with trophies touring five states

Hyderabad: The President Droupadi Murmu, flagged off the three iconic Durand Cup trophies from the Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre (RBCC) on Friday to formally mark the commencement of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup – Asia’s oldest and India’s most prestigious football tournament, which kicks off on July 23.

This is the second consecutive year that the President has performed this symbolic gesture, reaffirming the Durand Cup’s enduring significance as a unique confluence of sport, service, and nationhood.

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The ceremony also continues a proud post-independence tradition of the Supreme Commander’s direct association with the Durand Cup.

The ceremony at the RBCC saw the presence of General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff; General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff; Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff; Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Air Staff; and Lt. General RC Tiwari, GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron, Durand Cup Organizing Committee (DCOC). Also gracing the occasion was Arjuna Award recipient and renowned Indian footballer Sandesh Jhingan.

Speaking at the occasion, President Murmu acknowledged the Durand Cup as a living symbol of India’s footballing heritage and Armed Forces’ sporting commitment.

“Football has a special place in the hearts of millions. It is not just a sport; it is a passion. The game of football is all about strategy, endurance, and working together towards a common goal,” she said.

“Events like the Durand Cup not only foster the spirit of the game but also help develop the next generation of football players, providing them with a platform to grow,” the President of India added.

General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, said that the Durand Cup was a legacy of valour, discipline, and unity that reflects the finest traditions of our Armed Forces and our nation.

Lt. Gen. Bhavnish Kumar, GOC Delhi Area and Chairman, Standing Working Committee, Durand Football Tournament Society, said that the Durand Football Tournament Society had long stood as a symbol of excellence in promoting football in our nation.

The trio of revered trophies – the Durand Cup, the President’s Cup, and the Shimla Trophy – will now embark on a multi-city tour across this year’s five host states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur.