These are three groundbreaking moments in the history of Indian football, each marking a major milestone for Indian players on the international stage. Let’s look at each one of them:
1. Mohammed Salim’s Historic Move to Celtic FC (1936)
Player: Mohammed Salim
Date: 1936
Club: Celtic FC (Scotland)
Significance: Mohammed Salim made history by becoming the first player from the Indian subcontinent to play for a European club. This was an extraordinary achievement, especially in the 1930s, when football was beginning to grow globally, but Indian players were rarely seen in European leagues.
Salim, a talented winger from Calcutta (now Kolkata), caught the attention of Celtic FC after impressing in trials. His move to Celtic was a significant moment not only for Indian football but also for football in the broader Asian context. Salim’s trailblazing journey paved the way for future generations of Indian footballers to dream of international careers.
He played in a few friendly matches and is often hailed as a pioneer in bridging the gap between Indian football and the European footballing world.
2. Bhaichung Bhutia’s Move to Bury FC (1999)
Player: Bhaichung Bhutia
Date: 1999
Club: Bury FC (England, Second Division)
Significance: Bhaichung Bhutia, widely regarded as India’s best footballer, became the first Indian player to play in England when he signed a contract with Bury FC in 1999. His move to England was a monumental moment in Indian football history, making him the first Indian footballer to play in a European club’s professional league.
Bhutia’s journey began at Mohun Bagan, and after a successful career in India, he moved to England, where he played in Bury FC for several seasons. His move was groundbreaking, not just for him as an individual, but also for Indian football, showing that players from India could succeed in competitive European leagues.
Bhutia’s experience in England further raised the profile of Indian football and inspired future generations of Indian players to pursue international careers.
3. Aditi Chauhan’s Historic Achievement with West Ham United (2015)
Player: Aditi Chauhan
Date: 16th August 2015
Club: West Ham United (England)
Significance: Aditi Chauhan made history as the first Indian woman to play in the English league football when she signed for West Ham United. She was a goalkeeper for the club, making her debut in 2015.
Aditi had an impressive football journey, having attended Loughborough University, where she earned an MSc in sports management and represented the university’s football team. Her move to West Ham United was a major milestone for women’s football in India, showcasing that Indian women could succeed on the international football stage.
Chauhan’s achievements have helped increase the visibility of women’s football in India and have served as an inspiration to many aspiring female players.
After her time in England, Aditi returned to India and joined Gokulam Kerala FC for the 2019-2020 Indian Women’s League, continuing to inspire young footballers in India and further contributing to the growth of women’s football in the country.
Mohammed Salim (1936) – The first Indian to play for a European club (Celtic FC), breaking barriers for Indian footballers on the global stage.
Bhaichung Bhutia (1999) – The first Indian to play in England’s professional league (Bury FC), establishing Indian footballers’ potential in European football.
Aditi Chauhan (2015) – The first Indian woman to play in the English football league with West Ham United, leading the way for women’s football in India and around the world.
These milestones represent pioneering efforts in Indian football. Mohammed Salim, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Aditi Chauhan have each made history in their respective eras, breaking down barriers and proving that Indian footballers — both men and women — can excel on the global stage. Their achievements continue to inspire future generations of footballers in India, and their legacy is vital for the growth and development of the sport in the country.
