The 135th Durand Cup came to a grand conclusion on Sunday, August 23, with a glittering closing ceremony and prize distribution at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.
The month-long tournament, organised by the Indian Armed Forces, concluded in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Senior military and civil officials, representatives of participating clubs, sponsors and members of the football fraternity were also present.
East Bengal FC were presented with the Durand Cup, Simla Trophy and President’s Cup Scroll by Rajnath Singh. The champions also received their gold medals and a prize cheque of ₹1.21 crore.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the runners-up, were presented with silver medals and a cheque of ₹60 lakh.
Individual awards were also distributed during the ceremony. Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith received the Golden Glove, along with a ₹3 lakh cash prize and an SUV key. NorthEast United FC forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie was awarded the Golden Boot with the same prize package, while East Bengal FC’s Edmund Lalrindika received the Golden Ball, along with ₹3 lakh and an SUV key.
The four losing quarter-finalists — Indian Army FT, Jamshedpur FC, Shillong Lajong FC and FC Raengdai — were each awarded ₹15 lakh. The two losing semi-finalists, SC Delhi and NorthEast United FC, received ₹25 lakh each.
Match officials and referees were also felicitated for their contribution to the tournament.
The closing ceremony featured a colourful cultural programme highlighting India’s diverse traditions, the heritage of West Bengal and the martial arts traditions of the Indian Army. Performances included Gatka, Kalaripayattu, Krav Maga and Mallakhamb.
A special Purulia Chhau performance by Kalipada Chhau Nritya Samity and Jaladhar Chhau Nritya Academy showcased Bengal’s rich folk heritage.
The ceremonial proceedings also included the Trophy Drill, featuring the three trophies awarded to the champions, followed by an audio-visual presentation tracing the history and legacy of the historic tournament.
The Ball Drill and Flag March were held before the players and match officials entered the field. The teams then joined the dignitaries for a meet-and-greet and official photographs with the trophies.
At half-time, the Air Warrior Drill Team – Arjan staged a special display featuring precision rifle manoeuvres.
The tournament concluded with a performance by the Indian Army Orchestra Band following the final, bringing the 135th edition of the Durand Cup to a ceremonial close.
