Summary
- A grand trophy showcase ceremony for the 134th Durand Cup 2025 was held in Imphal
- Three prestigious trophies — the Durand Cup, President’s Cup, and Shimla Trophy — were formally unveiled during the event
- The trophies had earlier toured key locations across Manipur including Sendra, Moirang, Bishnupur, Manipur University, Chingmeirong War Cemetery
Imphal (Manipur) July 11: A trophy showcase ceremony in Imphal for the 134th edition of the Durand Cup 2025 featured the grand unveiling of the Durand Cup trophy, the President’s Cup, and the Simla Trophy.
The three celebrated trophies — the iconic Durand Cup, the rolling Shimla Trophy gifted by Shimla residents in 1904, and the President’s Cup, awarded as a permanent prize to winners — were formally presented during the event.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla alongwith a host of dignitaries take part in the ceremony on Thursday.
These trophies had earlier toured several locations across Manipur — including Sendra, Moirang, Bishnupur, Manipur University, Kangla, and Chingmeirong War Cemetery — before arriving at the City Convention Centre, where they were received by the Governor along with senior officials from both the civil and military establishments.
Lieutenant General Mohit Malhotra, Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command and Chairman of the Durand Cup Organising Committee, reflected on the tournament’s illustrious legacy. “For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has not only shaped Indian football but has also brought people together, creating generations of legends and uniting diverse communities,” he said.
He highlighted the tournament’s recent transformation under the leadership of the Eastern Command, noting significant growth in its visibility, outreach, and professional standards.
Our collaboration with partners nationwide has allowed the tournament to maintain its rich heritage while evolving into a modern and inclusive sporting spectacle, Lt. Gen. Malhotra added.
He extended an open invitation to the residents of Imphal and football fans across Manipur to take part in the upcoming matches and witness top-tier football action up close.
Speaking at the City Convention Centre in Imphal, Governor Bhalla applauded the Indian Army for its unwavering support in fostering sports culture and promoting national unity.
He expressed hope that the prestigious Durand Cup would motivate young athletes across the region to strive for excellence in the field of sports.
Bhalla, who previously served as Union Home Secretary, noted that the return of the Durand Cup to Imphal exemplifies the state’s deep-rooted passion for football and reflects the synergy between the civil administration and the armed forces in organizing such high-profile events.
He commended the Indian Army for being a steadfast promoter of youth engagement through sporting platforms, adding that the enthusiastic response from the people of Manipur demonstrates the enduring respect and strong bond between the military and the civilian population.
The event was attended by Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, State Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, GOC 3 Corps Lt. Gen. Abhijit S Pendharkar, GOC 57 Mountain Division Maj. Gen. S S Kartikeya, and IG Assam Rifles (South) Maj. Gen. Ravroop Singh.
Olympians Kshetrimayum Thoiba Singh and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, along with other notable athletes, coaches, NCC cadets, and public figures, also graced the occasion, adding to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding one of India’s oldest and most prestigious football tournaments.
The Durand Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 23 across five cities — Imphal, Shillong, Kokrajhar, Kolkata, and Jamshedpur. Imphal will host six group stage matches at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium between July 30 and August 12. (Edited).
