East Bengal Club has rediscovered its form in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) after a poor start. Their recent 4-2 victory over Punjab FC, overturning a 0-2 halftime deficit, has boosted their morale. However, this article focuses on something different: the exhibition of East Bengal’s artefacts at the Kolkata Centre for Culture as part of the AMI Arts Festival. This exhibition celebrates East Bengal’s 105th anniversary in 2025, which ends on Sunday, December 22.
The exhibition features priceless artefacts and memorabilia spanning the club’s rich history. Among the highlights is a jersey from the 1925 season. It was the season when the first official Kolkata Derby was played, which East Bengal won 1-0 thanks to a goal by Nepal Chakraborty.
Key Artifacts at the Exhibition:
1925, East Bengal Jersey: Worn by legendary captain Surya Chakraborty, presented by his son Sunil Chakraborty.
1925, European vs Indian Match Medal: Awarded after India’s 2-0 victory over an European team, with goals by Surya and Kumar.
1942, Calcutta League Trophy: Nagan Roy holding the glittering cup from East Bengal’s first league title win.
1945, IFA Shield Final Trophy: Man of the Match trophy awarded to captain Poritosh Chakraborty after defeating Mohun Bagan 1-0.
1948, Blazer: Belonging to founding member Shailesh Basu.
1948, East Bengal vs. China Olympic Team Medal: Commemorating a 2-0 victory, the first international win by an Indian club.
1950, India Team Blazer and Hat: Worn by P.B.A. Saley during the tours of East Asia.
1975, IFA Shield Final Boot: Match-worn boot of captain Ashok Lal Banerjee from the iconic 5-0 win over Mohun Bagan.
1985, Krishanu Dey’s Boots: Worn by the player known as the “Indian Maradona” in his final match.
1989, Durand Cup Medal: Personal medal of Krishanu Dey after captaining East Bengal to victory over Mohun Bagan.
2003, ASEAN Championship Coach’s Jersey: Worn by coach Subhash Bhowmick when East Bengal defeated Bec Tero Sasana 3-1.
Other Artifacts: Memorabilia from tournaments like the Federation Cup, Durand Cup, and Coca-Cola Cup, along with signed jerseys, footballs, and cricket memorabilia.
Fan Engagement and Merchandise:
The exhibition also features a merchandise store with jerseys, scarves, keyrings, and other collectables. Fan engagement programs like quiz competitions also offer opportunities to win exclusive East Bengal merchandise.
Writer’s Note:
As a family member of former East Bengal player Shri Sambhu Das Chowdhury, my grandfather, I have a personal connection to these artefacts. Our family treasures include many such memorabilia – Durand Cup runner’s memento, an IFA Shield winner’s medal, a club blazer from the 1960s, Elliot Shield medal, Rovers Cup medal and many more. Walking through this exhibition felt like reliving the rich history and legacy of East Bengal, an experience that will resonate with every football fan, regardless of their allegiance.