An era in football officiating has come to an end. Bhuvan Mohon Tarafder, a face synonymous with integrity on the green turf, will no longer be seen commanding the pitch. The veteran referee blew his final whistle on April 10 during the high-voltage clash between arch-rivals Abahani and Mohammedan in Cumilla, marking the conclusion of a distinguished 21-year career.
A resident of the Jummapara neighborhood in Nilphamari and a Physical Education teacher at Chomir Uddin School and College, Bhuvan’s journey began in 2003. However, his formal officiating career took flight in 2005 as a 3rd Class Referee. Through sheer merit and dedication, he ascended the ranks:
2007: Promoted to 2nd Class Referee.
2011: Achieved National Referee status.
2013 – 2019: Represented Bangladesh as a FIFA International Referee.
Bhuvan’s expertise was not confined to domestic boundaries. He successfully officiated over 30 international matches across countries including Malaysia, Nepal, India, and Cambodia. Between 2007 and 2009, he completed his graduation under the AFC Project Referee program. Over the course of his professional life, he has been honored with more than 10 prestigious awards.
Reflecting on his journey, Bhuvan Mohon Tarafder stated:
"In this 21-year long journey, I didn't just officiate matches; I was able to mentor and develop more than 40 new referees. That remains my greatest achievement."
During his expansive career, he had the unique distinction of officiating matches featuring the current State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haque, and BFF President, Tabith Awal. At the moment of his retirement, he offered crucial recommendations to modernize refereeing in Bangladesh:
Enhancing advanced training and modern facilities for referees.
Bringing refereeing under a permanent salary structure.
Ensuring financial incentives based on categories to boost professionalism.
Career at a Glance :
Full Name Bhuvan Mohon Tarafder
Hometown Nilphamari (Jummapara)
Profession Teacher (Chomir Uddin School & College)
FIFA Referee 2013 – 2019
International Matches 30+
Career Span 2005 – 2026 (21 Years)
Retirement Match Abahani vs. Mohammedan (April 10, 2026)
Bhuvan Mohon Tarafder remains a shining example of honesty and devotion in Bangladeshi football. While the field loses a master conductor, the new generation of referees he mentored will ensure his legacy lives on with every whistle blown on the pitch.
Thank you, Sir, for your dedicated service to the beautiful game!
