It’s early on a Sunday and the sports ground near the Bangalore East railway station is abuzz with activity. The grounds and even parts of the railway station overlooking the pitch are packed with sports fans, waiting for the day’s match of the Independence Football Cup to begin.
The tournament, held on Sundays over seven weeks, features teams from across the city.
The event is a huge deal for residents of the Cantonment area. “The football tournament is truly a highlight for all football lovers across the city,” explains 22-year-old Gautam Abrams, a student. “It is something I and my friends have been fans of for as far as I can remember.”
Mr. Abrams is not alone in his affection for the cup. “It is especially popular with youngsters,” says Purashotai, owner of the Cox Town landmark Everest theatre. “But it appeals to all local residents. There is a real community feel to the tournament as all the local football teams from Cox Town, Fraser Town and the surrounding areas compete.”
This sense of community and friendliness has been the hallmark of the tournament for more than half a century now. The East Bangalore grounds has been the host because of its common ground status.
Getting bigger
While Mr. Purashotai remembers the days when only a handful of teams would participate, the rapid increase of local support and passion for the beautiful game means that 130 teams are competing in the 56th edition of the tournament this year.
“This is a historic tournament,” says Jawa Peter, secretary of the East Indian Sports Club in the city, which is one of the many sponsors of local football events. “Over seven weeks, we hold 16 matches every Sunday, providing plenty of action for the fans.”
The fixtures begin at 10.30 a.m. and the final will be held on August 15.
