WIN-WIN ON MATCHLESS EVENING

On August 16, 1980, at Eden Gardens was written the blackest chapter in the chronicles of the legendary East Bengal-Mohun Bagan rivalry as they squared off for a league match, with 16 fans losing their lives due to the mayhem in the stands.

- Robin Roy Aritra Singha

However, 44 years later, on August 18, 2024, the fans of the two teams wrote a new chapter. Despite the marquee match having been called off for security reasons, the manner in which the fans handled it was a win-win. Looking back, they can justly be proud of themselves, for having showcased bonhomie, to seek justice for the RG Kar doctor.

A jersey displays colour(s), but sportsmanship depicts conduct, respect and graciousness for one and all.

On Sunday this was the face that came to the fore, with colours taking a backseat on EM Bypass Road at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake.

Without wasting time, another giant of Kolkata's 'moidan' (as maidan is pronounced in Bangla) joined the protest rally. Braving torrential rain fans of Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting Club raised slogans like Teen Prodhan er Ek Shor, Justice for RG Kar', 'Bangal-Ghotir Ek Shor, Justice for RG Kar The 'Bangal-Ghoti' enmity goes a long way... and River Ganges is considered the great divider...