Colourful Ceremony Marks the Start of Durand Cup 2024’s Kokrajhar Edition Today

BTR chief Pramod Boro acknowledged the significance of the event in providing a great platform for the Bodoland Territorial Region to showcase the rich history, culture and the spirits of

A spectacular opening ceremony heralded the start of the Durand Cup in Kokrajhar. An impressive array of performances was witnessed, displaying both military and cultural heritage. Fly past of army aviation helicopters were witnessed followed by a spectacular sky-diving ceremony.

Mizoram’s Minister of State for Sports and Youth Services Department Lalnghinglova Hmar, former Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, BTR chief executive member Pramod Boro, Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command attended the event.

The opening ceremony witnessed 10,000 football enthusiasts, throng the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Stadium from across the state.

Thrilling aerial activities like helicopter flypast, parachute jumps and paramotor display by the personnel of Indian Armed Forces added military flavour to the occasion. Cultural displays by the Chenda drummers, Chhau dancers and Bhangra artists of the Armed Forces, teamed with the Bodo cultural troupe, added colour and festivity to the inaugural event.

BTR chief Pramod Boro addressed the crowd and complimented the efforts of the Armed Forces for the spectacular show and for bringing the Durand Cup back to the city of Kokrajhar for the second consecutive year.

He acknowledged the significance of the event in providing a great platform for the Bodoland Territorial Region to showcase the rich history, culture and the spirits of sports and adventure in the region.

Langhinglova also addressed the gathering on the occasion and spoke at length about the rich sports culture of the region and extended his best wishes to all participating teams.

He also highlighted Indian Army’s role in nation building and sports as a tool of youth empowerment.

The inaugural match proved to be a thrilling contest between the local favourites Bodoland FC and North East United FC, wherein, North East United FC won with a score of two goals.

No goals were scored by the Bodoland FC. Jithin and Ankith scored one goal each from North East United FC in a demonstration of skill, stamina and team work.

On August 3, Odisha FC will play the BSF FT at the same stadium.

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