Gostha Pal


Gostha Behari Pal was an Indian professional football player. He was first captain of India national football team, played in the 1920s and 1930s.

Personal life

Pal was born in Bhojeswar, Faridpore, Bengal Presidency. He moved to Kolkata when he was an infant and lived there till his very last days.

Football career

Nicknamed as "Chiner Pracheer" he was one of the best defenders of contemporary Indian football. He started playing for Kumartuli A.C. aged 11, and joined Mohun Bagan at the age of 16. In 1921, Gostho Paul was honored with the captaincy of the Mohun Bagan football team, and he remained as the club captain for next 5 years. In 1924, he was also appointed as the captain of the Indian national football team. He retired in 1935.

Legacy

A statue was erected In his memory in 1984 on the Gostho Pal Sarani in Kolkata.

Awards