9th Capt Kengurüse Football tourney poster, theme song released

The Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) and under the aegis of Operation Sadbhavana, Spear Corps, held the poster and theme song release ceremony of the 9th Captain N. Kengurüse, MVC Memorial Football Tournament at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, on Monday.
The memorial tournament, organised by the 45 Assam Rifles under HQ 6 Sector Assam Rifles/IGAR (North) in partnership with the NFA, will be held from October 22 to November 6 featuring 20 teams at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Chief guest of the event, advisor to CM and chairman IDAN, Abu Metha, conveyed greetings from CM Neiphiu Rio and extended gratitude to the armed forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, for their continued efforts in honouring the memory of Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse, MVC.
Metha described Captain Kengurüse as one of Nagaland’s and India’s great personalities, noting that his courage and supreme sacrifice during the Kargil War had earned him a place among legendary Naga figures such as P. Shilu Ao, Dr. T. Ao, Chekrovolu Swüro, and Hotozhe Sema. He lauded the Assam Rifles for upholding the legacy of Captain Kengurüse through sports, saying the tournament was not only a tribute to a national hero but also a platform to unite people and inspire youth through football.
Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Metha said that sporting events transcend boundaries and differences, fostering community and national spirit. He expressed hope that the tournament would continue to grow and bring together people from all walks of life, while also encouraging the armed forces to maintain their commendable work for peace and development.
Referring to Nagaland’s social and political challenges, Metha called for greater collaboration between civil society and the armed forces to work towards lasting peace and progress. Addressing students of Kohima Science College, he encouraged them to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development, reminding them that success comes only through hard work.
MLA Dr. Ato, who attended as the special guest, said the event was not just a tournament launch but a remembrance of a son of Nagaland who became a legend of India. He described Captain Kengurüse as a symbol of bravery, humility, and selfless service, whose sacrifice continues to inspire generations. Dr. Ato said that through the tournament, the youth are reminded that true victory lies in character, discipline, and teamwork.
He added that football, as a universal language, teaches unity and respect, and that the memorial tournament embodies these values by bringing people together. He also commended the Assam Rifles and NFA for their collaborative efforts in organising the event, noting that it strengthens the bond between the armed forces and the citizens.
Brigadier S. K. Palande, Deputy Inspector General, IGAR (North), recalled Captain Kengurüse’s valour during the Kargil War, describing his actions at 16,000 feet as a remarkable display of leadership and determination. He urged the participating teams to emulate his spirit by playing with passion, discipline, and perseverance.
Father of Late Captain Kengurüse, Neiselie Kengurüse, expressed gratitude to the 45 Assam Rifles, NFA, and Kohima Science College for their continued support in honouring his son’s memory. He described his late son as not just his own, but a son of all Nagas, whose sacrifice continues to inspire unity and pride among the people.
The ceremony began with a short film on the life of Captain Kengurüse, followed by the unveiling of the tournament’s official mascot, “The Mithun Warrior,” symbolising strength, unity, and resilience. Dignitaries, including the parents of Captain Kengurüse, representatives from NFA, and cultural icons of Nagaland, were felicitated during the event.
The theme song of the tournament, composed by the “Chaturth Pancham” Jazz Band of the 45 Assam Rifles, was also released, capturing the spirit of pride, passion, and perseverance that defines the memorial tournament.