India is a patchwork of art and craft forms. The Indian styles of paintings have unique origins and history behind them which make them even more interesting. This exhaustive list of different types of Indian paintings shows how every part of India added to its rich cultural heritage. West Bengal - Kalighat Painting Originated in the 19th century Bengal, from Kalighat. It was the time when upheaval against the British was a possible, exciting idea. These paintings, on cloth and pattas , at first depicted Gods and Goddesses, but then took a turn towards social reform. With cheap paper and paint colours, squirrel hair brushes and colour pigments, the art was characterised by flawless strokes, brushwork, and simple but bold drawings. It sought to raise awareness about social conditions in its viewers – rich zamindars were depicted drinking wine with women, while priests were shown with ‘unchaste’ women and police babus being sloppy. Andhra Pradesh - Kalamkari Kalamkari means, “pen-art”.
East Bengal Club, now known as East Bengal FC, is one of the most celebrated and historic football clubs in India. Founded in 1920, this Kolkata-based club has built a rich legacy marked by fierce rivalries, memorable wins, and an enthusiastic fan base. Here's a glimpse into the glorious history of East Bengal:
1. Founding and Early Years (1920s)
- East Bengal was founded by Suresh Chandra Chaudhuri and others who wanted a platform for players from East Bengal (now Bangladesh) to showcase their talent. The club was established on August 1, 1920.
- They began in the second division of the Calcutta Football League and gradually moved up the ranks due to their impressive performance.
2. Rise to Prominence (1930s - 1940s)
- In 1942, East Bengal won the Calcutta Football League for the first time, marking the beginning of a dominant era.
- They continued to grow in stature, winning several local and national tournaments.
- The 1940s saw East Bengal form a strong rivalry with Mohun Bagan, giving birth to the legendary "Kolkata Derby" or "Boro Match," one of Asia’s most intense football rivalries.
3. Golden Era (1950s - 1970s)
- The 1950s saw East Bengal cementing itself as a dominant force in Indian football. They won the IFA Shield, Durand Cup, and Rovers Cup multiple times.
- In 1970, East Bengal achieved an iconic victory by defeating PAS Tehran, the Iranian powerhouse, 1-0 in the IFA Shield final. This win underscored East Bengal's strength on the international stage.
- The club also won the Calcutta Football League consecutively for six years from 1970 to 1975, a remarkable feat that remains part of its legendary history.
4. National Success and Durand Cup (1980s - 1990s)
- East Bengal won numerous national tournaments in the 1980s and ’90s, including several Federation Cups, making it one of India’s most successful clubs in the competition.
- They won the Durand Cup in 1982, 1989, and 1991, among other years, showcasing consistent performances in India’s oldest football tournament.
- The 1997 Federation Cup semi-final against Mohun Bagan saw a record attendance of nearly 131,000, illustrating the club's immense popularity.
5. Dominance in the 2000s
- In the early 2000s, East Bengal made history by winning the ASEAN Club Championship in 2003, defeating BEC Tero Sasana of Thailand in the final, a remarkable international achievement for Indian football.
- The club won multiple national tournaments, including the National Football League (now the I-League) titles in 2001, 2003, and 2004.
- East Bengal also set a record by winning the Calcutta Football League eight consecutive times from 2010 to 2017.
6. Transition to the Indian Super League (ISL)
- In 2020, East Bengal entered the Indian Super League (ISL), marking a new chapter in its history.
- Although their performance in the ISL has been inconsistent, East Bengal’s entry into India’s top-tier league brought its storied history and passionate fan base to a broader audience.
7. Rivalry with Mohun Bagan
- The Kolkata Derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan is one of the oldest and most intense football rivalries in Asia. This rivalry transcends football, reflecting cultural and regional pride.
- The match is famous for drawing massive crowds and high emotions, with fans passionately supporting their respective teams.
8. Notable Achievements
- Calcutta Football League Titles: Over 39 times, including a record-breaking streak from 2010 to 2017.
- IFA Shield Wins: East Bengal has won the IFA Shield more than 28 times, one of the highest in the tournament’s history.
- Federation Cup Titles: 8 titles, making them one of the most successful clubs in the tournament.
- ASEAN Club Championship: The only Indian club to win this prestigious Southeast Asian tournament in 2003.
9. Impact and Legacy
- East Bengal has been home to legendary players and coaches, including Shyam Thapa, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Sunil Chhetri.
- The club has not only promoted football but also fostered a sense of identity for millions, particularly for the Bengali diaspora and the people of East Bengal origin.
- East Bengal's iconic red and gold colors are symbols of pride and tradition in Indian football.
East Bengal’s history is marked by resilience, pride, and numerous trophies, and its legacy continues to inspire millions of fans across generations. The club remains a cornerstone of Indian football with its undying spirit and commitment to the beautiful game.
Comments
Post a Comment