4th Edition of Freedom Fighter Jhagaru Gour Memorial Football Tournament 2025 Concludes with a Thrilling Finale in Sonitpur
Rangapara :
The grand finale of the 4th Edition of the Freedom Fighter Jhagaru Gour Memorial Football Tournament 2025 concluded with great fanfare at the Thakurbari Planters Club Field, Rangapara, Sonitpur, Assam, where an enthusiastic crowd of over 15,000 spectators gathered to witness high-voltage football action and cultural celebrations.
The prestigious tournament, now regarded as one of the most awaited sporting events in the region, was organized by Aadhunik India Foundation with the close support and collaboration of the Indian Army, particularly the Gajraj Corps and the 27 Rajput Regiment. The event not only celebrated the legacy of freedom fighter Jhagaru Gour but also provided a powerful platform for tea garden and Adivasi youths of Assam to showcase their footballing talent.
In the thrilling championship match, Sonabeel FC emerged as the undisputed champion after defeating Sessa FC with a resounding 5-0 victory. Their triumph was met with thunderous applause from the spectators, marking a proud moment for the players and their supporters.
The winning team, Sonabeel FC, was awarded a cash prize of ₹30,000 along with a prestigious championship trophy, jerseys, certificates, and medals. The runner-up team, Sessa FC, received a cash award of ₹20,000, a trophy, medals, and certificates.
The prizes were presented by the distinguished dignitaries Maj Gen H S Gill, Chief Guest of the event, presented the winners with jerseys, certificates, and medals. SSB DIG HNS Bisht, Guest of Honor, felicitated the runner-up team with cash, certificates, and medals.
The referees, who played a crucial role in ensuring fair play and discipline throughout the tournament, were also honored with special gifts.
The finale was not just about football—it was also a celebration of cultural pride and unity. The audience was enthralled by a spectacular performance from 100 Jhumar dancers and the traditional Saura Dance, which brought alive the rich heritage of Assam’s tribal and tea garden communities. The colorful costumes, rhythmic beats, and energetic moves created a festive atmosphere that blended sports with culture in perfect harmony.
Adding to the grandeur, the Indian Army Band performed for 15 minutes, captivating football lovers and creating an unforgettable experience.
The Chief Guest and Guests of Honor were welcomed with traditional Assamese gamchas and cultural performances, reflecting the gratitude and respect of the organizing committee.
In his address, Mr. D.K. Chauhan, National President of Aadhunik India Foundation, extended heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army, Gajraj Corps, and the 27 Rajput Regiment for their unwavering support in organizing the tournament. He highlighted the historic nature of this collaboration, noting that it was the first time in over 200 years that tea garden youths had the opportunity to receive training, discipline, and guidance directly from the Indian Army.
Mr. Chauhan further encouraged the young footballers to pursue their dreams relentlessly, urging them to aim for opportunities at the national level and in professional football clubs. He assured that the Aadhunik India Foundation would continue to support the youths in both sports and personal development.
The Chief Guest, Maj Gen Gill, delivered an equally inspiring speech, congratulating the teams for their spirited performances. He stressed the importance of hard work, discipline, and self-upliftment in shaping the future of young people. He also commended Aadhunik India Foundation for organizing such a meaningful event and encouraged the players to continue their journey with dedication and courage.
On this special occasion, the souvenir Adivasi Udaan was also formally released by the dignitaries, adding yet another milestone to the event.
The event paid tribute to the efforts of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Over 120 volunteers, whose dedication ensured the smooth conduct of the tournament, were honored by the Indian Army with mementos. In addition, around 100 Army personnel were felicitated by the Aadhunik India Foundation with traditional gamchas and special mementos as a gesture of appreciation for their constant support to the community and promotion of sports.
The grand finale was graced by the presence of several eminent personalities, including Air Commodore AN Karulkar, VM, Kavita Konwar Kakaty, ACS, Co-District Commissioner, Sonitpur District, Dy Commander Col Vivek Mishra, Officials from SSB and ITBP, Rangapara Officer-in-Charge (OC), Tea Garden Managers, ABITA Chairman, Tezpur Branch, Presidents and Secretaries of all ACMS Units
Their participation highlighted the collective spirit and shared commitment towards uplifting the youths of Assam through sports and community initiatives.
The 4th Edition of the Freedom Fighter Jhagaru Gour Memorial Football Tournament 2025 was far more than just a football competition. It was a celebration of sportsmanship, cultural identity, community bonding, and youth empowerment. The tournament also carried forward the legacy of Jhagaru Gour, who fought courageously for the dignity, rights, and recognition of the Adivasi community, and whose vision continues to inspire new generations.
The overwhelming success of the event has further strengthened the resolve of the Aadhunik India Foundation to continue nurturing young sporting talents and promoting holistic development in tea garden and tribal communities. With initiatives like this, the Foundation aims to pave the way for a brighter future where sports becomes a powerful tool for social change, unity, and empowerment
