In Indian football, few rivalries encapsulate the passion and loyalty of fans like the one between Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC. Rooted in cultural pride, these two teams have registered their names on the field and also take forward the rich histories shown in their colours and emblems. Both of their crests show a story of identity and purpose whose impact falls far beyond the beautiful game.
Mohun Bagan: Green and Maroon
Mohun Bagan were founded in 1889 and are heralded as one of the oldest football clubs in Asia. The Mariners kicked off their journey modestly, but their progress gained step after winning against their British counterparts East Yorkshire Regiment in the final of the IFA Shield final. This victory was a stamp of both their defiance and pride, with Mohun Bagan’s colours of green and maroon getting swift popularity thereafter, holding a symbolic meaning of millions.
The colours of green and maroon are incorporated in the club’s crest, which also features a sailing country boat. The boat signifies the origins of the club, which highlight the riverine landscape and the state of Bengal’s link with water and trade since the yesteryears. Earlier, the club’s emblem showed a Royal Bengal Tiger, which used to rest under a palm tree, when it was renamed as the Mohun Bagan Athletic Club in 1890. The tiger, considered to be an image of power, courage, and pride, metaphorically displayed Bengal’s spirit and also the core ethos of the club, i.e. resilience and demonstration. Over a period of time, the sailing boat became the primary emblem, connecting the image of the lasting journey and competitive spirit defining the Mariners.
East Bengal: Red and Gold
East Bengal FC’s famed journey began in 1920, amidst an era when the club was recognised as the representation of the displaced population of East Bengal (now Bangladesh), after Bengal’s partition in 1905. This deep-rooted association is central to the club’s identity, as is the durability and supporters’ pride.
The Red & Gold Brigade of East Bengal FC showcase the strength and courage of the people of the region. The red colour signifies sacrifice and determination, whereas gold highlights victory and glory, which are qualities that have regularly spearheaded the club’s on-field performances. These colours were historically chosen to invoke a sense of pride to unite the community that shared similar roots and aspirations.
The emblem is a hand holding a flaming torch, again a strong symbol. This design came about in 1930, after a major event in the club’s history. The East Bengal FC fans and officials had conducted a protest match after the club was arguably unfairly denied the promotion of the first division of the Calcutta Football League. The mawshal – as their emblem is called in Bengali, represents a burning desire for justice and ambition. The emblem has been a formidable icon displaying their undying spirit and refusal to give in during times of adversities.
Colours and Crests
As of today, the colours and emblems of both clubs arise a pride and loyalty in the hearts of the fans, who watch every game as more than just a football game. The green and maroon sailing boat showcases a legacy of endurance unity, whereas the red and gold torch ignite a passion fuelled by pride. These symbols continue to remind fans of the values represented by the club and the sacrifices made by their supporters, who came before them.
