বাংলায় পড়ুন
Kolkata, the ‘City of Joy’ is known for its immense passion for sports, be it football or cricket. But did you know that the oldest Polo club of the world was established in Kolkata? Polo is a sport popularised by British is actually an Indian game derived from a Manipuri game called ‘Sagol Kangjei’.
The Polo Club was established in 1862 by two British soldiers Captain Robert Stewart and Joe Sherer. Polo is counted as a royal sport and several Maharajas across the country used to enjoy it. It was for their mere pleasure and entertainment. It was a popular winter sport. Legend has it that Maharani Gayatri Devi fell in love with Jaipur’s Maharaja Sawai Singh here in Kolkata during one such polo match.
As it is the first polo club of the world it is associated with the oldest Polo Trophy in the world, Ezra Cup; along with other old trophies such as Carmichael Cup (1910), and the Stewarts Cup (1932). The Erza Cup is named after Sir David Ezra, who sponsored the sport in the city. The first Indian Polo Association Championship was hosted by the Calcutta Polo Club in 1907 and continued. It is still active and running. Located in the center of the race course in Chowringhee road it escalates the city’s already rich heritage. So, it is a must visit for everyone visiting Kolkata.
