Durand Cup is the Asia’s oldest and the 3rd oldest football competition in the world instituted in 1888, named after its founder, Sir Mortimer Durand foreign secretary (1884-94). The tournament was initially a military affair and the competition was limited only to the Army in India. Later post independence, the tournament was opened to non-military teams to maintain the level of competition. This edition was a splendid mix of football talent from all over the country.

We were given the responsibility to manage this prestigious tournament, and keep the glory of the 128th edition of Durand cup alive.

There were a series of cultural performances lined up at the opening ceremony followed by the teams marching to the Durand song before the inaugural match between SC De Goa & DSK Shivajians. Performances like Mass band display, Traditional Maratha gymnastics ‘Malkhamb’, Kerala Karalipayattu martial art display and North – East Warrior show left the packed up stadium astonished. School children of APS Dhaula kuan & APS Delhi Cantt also mesmerized the crowd with their beautiful s dance & musical renditions.

We had the chiefs of Air, Navy and infantry divisions of the Indian army to grace the occasion. They addressed the gathering and declared the tournament open with the kick off.

At the closing ceremony, we had some spectacular performances from the Indian army band followed by the martial art show and the stunning laser light projection celebrating the spirit of the game. In the end, we had the grand prize distribution ceremony and the winning celebrations. The event was nationally broadcasted and also featured in most of the reputed journals.

Keeping in mind the existing benchmark set, our intentions were not only restricted towards hosting the 15 day scheduled tournament, but to bring out the essence of the Indian football by bringing the people back to stadium. The strategy was to promote football, take it to the masses and seek the support of the people to make this tournament a grand success.