On this day Nepali football faces a sombre day as we reflect on the harrowing events of Falgun 29th, 2044. What should have been an electrifying Tribhuvan Challenge Shield final between the revered Janakpur Cigarette Factory and Bangladesh’s Muktijoddha turned into a nightmare that shook the nation.

The Dashrath Stadium, pulsating with the energy of 20,000 plus fervent fans from around Nepal, brimming with excitement. While the Bangladeshi team took an early lead, the match’s intensity soared. However, in the 19th minute, disaster struck with unimaginable force, leaving the audience in shock and disbelief.

A sudden and ferocious windstorm tore through the stadium, hurling branches from nearby trees into the stands. Panic seized the crowd as stadium exits remained inexplicably locked, triggering a catastrophic stampede. The toll stands at a devastating 71 lives lost, with countless others injured in the chaos.

As the match continued amidst the chaos, both teams, visibly shaken, retreated from the field. The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) promptly suspended the game, recognizing the profound trauma inflicted by the tragedy. Three days later, the Bangladeshi contingent departed Nepal, leaving behind a grieving nation.

In a gesture of integrity, then Education and Culture Minister Keshar Bahadur Bista tendered his resignation to King Birendra in response to the incident. Since then, stringent protocols have been implemented, ensuring stadium exits remain accessible during matches to facilitate swift and secure evacuations.

Today, we solemnly commemorate this black day in Nepali football, vowing with unwavering determination and resolve to never allow such a catastrophe to tarnish the spirit of the beautiful game in our beloved nation again.