‘Not Mohan Baigan, But It’s Mohun Bagan’: TMC Slams BJP For Mispronouncing Bengal’s Century-Old Football Club

A video clip of Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has gone viral after he accidentally mispronounced the names of Bengal's two legendary football clubs - Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. The incident quickly turned political, with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) mocking the minister and accusing the BJP of showing disrespect to

In the short clip, which was shared by the TMC on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the minister is seen referring to the clubs as "Mohan Baigan" and "East Baigan." The mispronunciation immediately drew strong reactions from football fans and political leaders across the state.

TMC Takes a Dig at BJP

The TMC was quick to use the video to attack the BJP ahead of the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to West Bengal.

In a strongly worded post, the party said that the Union Sports Minister from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet could not even pronounce the names of Bengal's century-old football institutions with respect.

The party's post sarcastically explained that it is "Mohun Bagan," not "Mohan Baigan," and "East Bengal," not "East Baigan." It added that both clubs are part of Bengal's cultural and emotional identity, and accused the BJP of ignoring the sentiments of the people.

The TMC also used the incident to criticize what it called the "outsider mindset" of BJP leaders, saying they fail to understand Bengal's traditions and deep passion for football.

"Football runs in Bengal's blood," the party wrote, adding that those who look down on Bengal will never understand the emotion behind the game.

Political Reactions and Public Sentiment

The video spread rapidly online, with many users sharing it humorously while others expressed anger. Some football fans said that the mispronunciation showed a lack of awareness about Bengal's history and culture, especially from a minister in charge of sports.

Meanwhile, the TMC advised the Prime Minister to take "elementary Bengali lessons" before his scheduled visit to the state on January 17, warning that such blunders could embarrass the BJP further.

Although the minister has not responded publicly yet, the incident has already added fuel to the ongoing political rivalry between the TMC and BJP in West Bengal. For many in the state, the episode served as a reminder of how deeply football - and its icons, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal - are tied to Bengal's pride and identity.

History of Mohun Bagan

Mohun Bagan is one of India's oldest and most celebrated football clubs, founded in 1889 in Kolkata, West Bengal. It holds a special place in Indian sports history for its role in inspiring national pride during the British era.

The club became famous after its historic victory in 1911, when it defeated the British team East Yorkshire Regiment in the IFA Shield final - a win that symbolized India's growing spirit of independence. Over the decades, Mohun Bagan has produced many legendary players and won numerous national and international titles.

The club later merged with ATK to form ATK Mohun Bagan, continuing its legacy in the Indian Super League (ISL). For millions of fans, Mohun Bagan is not just a football team but a symbol of Bengali pride, passion, and tradition.