Mohun Bagan Day

How Indian football fought against British imperialism!

Every year, on July 29th, football fans in India celebrate Mohun Bagan Day. This day marks the historic victory of Mohun Bagan Athletic Club in 1911, when they became the first Indian team to win the IFA Shield, defeating the British team East Yorkshire Regiment.

Thousands of fans were in attendance at the Kolkata Maidaan, and while Mohun Bagan went behind in the first half, they pulled off a dramatic comeback to win the game 2-1. The 11 players who took to the field that day for Mohun Bagan are called the Immortal 11 and posthumously received the Mohun Bagan Ratna as well.

This monumental win was not just a sports victory; it symbolised the rise of Indian nationalism during the colonial era. The triumph inspired a generation, proving that Indian talent could stand toe-to-toe with colonial powers.