Which City Is Known As The Mecca Of Indian Football?

Key Takeaways

• Kolkata is known as the Mecca of Indian football.

• Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Mohammedan Sporting Club are the most famous football clubs in Kolkata.

• Salt Lake is the biggest football stadium in India.

Mecca of Indian Football: Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is the city that is known as the ‘Mecca of Indian Football'.

This city earned this title because of its rich football history, and the oldest football club in India, which is Calcutta FC, established in 1872, is in Kolkata.

So, explore this article in detail and learn why Kolkata is called the 'Mecca' of Indian football, important football facts about Kolkata, and why football is so popular in Kolkata with important FAQs.

Important Facts About Football in Kolkata

Why is Kolkata called the Mecca of Indian Football?

Kolkata is called the Mecca' of Indian football for many reasons, and these reasons are given below:

1. India’s Biggest Football Club

There are three famous football clubs in Kolkata, which are among the oldest football clubs in India, that are:

• Mohun Bagan Super Giant

• East Bengal FC

• Mohammedan Sporting Club

2. The Historic Kolkata Derby

The oldest rivalries in football matches were played between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, which is popularly known as the “Kolkata Derby." It is one of the oldest rivalries in the Asian region.

3. Salt Lake Stadium

Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, which is also known as “Salt Lake Stadium," is the biggest stadium in India, with a total capacity of 85,000.

In this stadium, the FIFA U-17 World Cup, Indian Super League (ISL) matches, and international football games were also hosted in this stadium.

4. History  of Football in India

Football became so popular in India during the British era. In 1911, when Mohun Bagan defeated the East Yorkshire Regiment to win the IFA Shield, the Mohun Bagan Super Giant

became India’s first club to achieve this win and created the historic victory.

Why is Football so Popular in Kolkata?

In India, as cricket is popular in every Indian heart, the same as Football is so popular in Kolkata. Every family of this city supports foir this sport.

This city is also host many school tournaments, local football matches, and youth competitions that help the young players to develop their skills.