Latest news with #AbhijitSPendharkar
India Gazette
7 days ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Durand Cup returns to Imphal with a grand trophy tour
Imphal (Manipur)[India], July 11(ANI): Imphal welcomed the 134th Durand Cup trophies with a grand trophy tour as Asia's oldest football tournament returned to Manipur's capital after a gap of two years. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showcased here at the City Convention Centre in the presence of Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Also present were Prashant Kumar Singh IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur and senior military leadership, including Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Eastern Command and Chairman, Durand Cup Organising Committee, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar AVSM YSM, General Officer Commanding, 3 Corps, Maj Gen SS Karthikeya YSM SM, General Officer Commanding, 57 Mountain Division, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh YSM SM, Inspector General, Assam Rifles (South) and Rajiv Singh IPS -DGP Manipur. The three glittering pieces of silverware, the Durand Cup, the original prize and the rolling Shimla Trophy (presented by residents of Shimla in 1904), as well as the President's Cup, which the winners keep permanently, were unveiled during the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Manipur said, 'Hosting the 134th edition of the Durand Cup tournament once again in Imphal is a testament to our state's deep-rooted passion for football and the collective efforts of both civil and military establishments. I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Indian Army, particularly the Eastern Command, for bringing this celebrated tournament back to the football-loving land of Manipur. Sports are an integral part of our state's identity. Manipur has always been at the forefront of sporting excellence, producing national heroes and Olympians who have brought immense pride to the nation. I wish the 134th Edition of the Durand Cup great success. I am confident that it will be bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. My heartfelt wishes to all the participating teams. May you play with honour, courage, and passion, inspiring countless young hearts along the way'. Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra shared his thoughts, 'For over 137 years, the Durand Cup has witnessed the evolution of Indian football, producing legends, uniting communities, and igniting passions across generations. In recent years, under the stewardship of Eastern Command, the Durand Cup has experienced remarkable growth in stature, reach and quality. Our efforts, in close partnership with stakeholders across the country, have ensured that the tournament retains its heritage while embracing modern professionalism. I invite the people of this great city, football enthusiasts, and the vibrant youth of Manipur to come forward, be part of history, and experience world-class football at your doorstep. Together, let us celebrate the beautiful game, honour tradition, and inspire the next generation.' Also speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar said, 'The Durand Cup is a tournament steeped in history and tradition, organised under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces. It serves not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a living tribute to the enduring bond between the military and the people of India. This unique tournament has, over generations, stood as a symbol of camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship. I wish to express how truly historic and meaningful it is to witness the Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament in Asia, being hosted once again in the glorious state of Manipur - a land synonymous with resilience, rich culture, and an unshakeable love for football. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon'ble Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, for his wholehearted support and backing for the conduct of this year's Durand Cup in Imphal.' The trophy tour started in the morning from Sendra and travelled through Moirang, Bishnupur, Nambol, Keishampat Junction, Singjamei BR, Manipur University, Kangla West Gate, Chingmeirong (War Cemetery) and Lamlong Bazar before arriving at the City Convention Centre. Eight members of the Women's National team from Manipur, including captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, Grace Dangmei, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi and Lynda Serto Kom, who recently qualified for the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, were also present at the roadshow flag off. A total of six matches will be played in Imphal, with the first match scheduled on 30th July. The Khuman Lampak Stadium will host local sides North Eastern Reorganising Cultural Association (NEROCA FC) and Tiddim Road Athletic Union (TRAU FC), who will face each other in the Manipur derby. Real Kashmir FC and the Indian Navy Football Team are the other sides in the group. (ANI)
Time of India
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Shirui Lily Festival ends with vibrant cultural shows and music, celebrating Manipur's iconic bloom
The fifth and final day of the 5th State-Level Shirui Lily Festival concluded on a vibrant note, showcasing Manipur 's rich cultural tapestry, traditional heritage, and musical talent. Held in the Ukhrul district, the grand finale wrapped up a five-day celebration marking the 75th anniversary of the discovery of the rare and iconic Shirui Lily — Lilium Mackliniae, the state flower of Manipur. The day began at Bakshi Ground with the official closing ceremony featuring Shri Suman Billa, IAS, Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, as the Chief Guest and Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, GOC 3 Corps, as Guest of Honour. The event included a choreography performance by Zaishin Dance Studio, a special song by Pam's Kindergarten, worship songs by the Jesus Heart Team, and speeches from dignitaries. The evening came alive with SHiROCK performances at Heritage Ground in Shirui Village, headlined by Bombay Vikings, along with local bands Featherheads and Not Funny from Ukhrul. Acoustic evenings, tribal cuisine, traditional games, and adventure sports like ziplining and ATV biking added more excitement. Highlights from the week-long festival Day 1 (May 20): The festival kicked off at Shirui Village with an inaugural ceremony showcasing Tangkhul Naga customs. Cultural performances, indigenous crafts, and a message of ecological awareness around the endangered lily set the tone. Day 2 (May 21): The 75th Anniversary Memorial structure was unveiled, and Shirui Gospel Rock took center stage. Round 1 of SheChef (a culinary contest) and traditional games added energy, along with the start of a movie screening series and live music. Day 3 (May 22): The day featured a Bike Peace Rally, Round 2 of SheChef focused on vegetarian cuisine, and a bonfire concert. SHiROCK performances continued to draw large crowds with artists from across India. Day 4 (May 23): Highlights included a mini-marathon, tug-of-war, and wrestling competitions, as well as Round 3 of SheChef, which showcased dishes inspired by childhood memories. The glamorous Miss Shirui Lily 2025 pageant was also held. Day 5 (May 24): Besides the official closing ceremony, the final round of SheChef brought the culinary contest to a climax, while SHiROCK artists rocked the night with powerful music performances. Adventure activities, traditional games, food stalls, and tribal exhibitions continued throughout the day. Native only to the Shirui Hills of Ukhrul, the Shirui Lily blooms between April and June. Discovered in 1946 by British botanist Dr Frank Kingdon Ward and named after his wife Jean Macklin, the flower earned global acclaim when it won a prestigious award at the 1950 London Flower Show. The plant's rarity and fragile habitat have made it a symbol of conservation and cultural pride in Manipur. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Manipur, the festival not only promotes eco-tourism and local heritage but also offers a platform for unity among the diverse communities of the region. From traditional Tangkhul Naga culture to global rock bands, the Shirui Lily Festival blended the ancient with the contemporary, drawing visitors from across India and beyond.
