Mohun Bagan Day in India Date in the current year: July 29, 2024

Mohun Bagan A.C. is one of the oldest football clubs in Asia and the oldest existing one in India. It was established in 1889 by the three aristocratic Bengali families. The first president of the club was Bhupendra Nath Rose who would later become President of the Indian National Congress.

Mohun Bagan won its first trophy in 1904. Seven years later, it made history by becoming the first Indian club to defeat a European team and win the IFA Shield. On July 29, 1911, it defeated East Yorkshire Regiment playing barefoot, while Englishmen had proper equipment. This victory isn’t important just for Indian football, it is considered a landmark in the country’s struggle for independence.

Today, Mohun Bagan A.C. is one of India’s leading football clubs. To honor its historic victory over East Yorkshire Regiment, Mohun Bagan Day was established in 2001. On this day, a special award named Mohun Bagan Ratna is presented to outstanding former players of the club. The first recipient was Sailen Manna, one of the best Indian defenders who was the captain of Mohun Bagan from 1950 to 1955.