Calcutta: From nowhere to the top, the Aizawl FC story is one to be studied. It's not just a triumph of the underdogs, it's a lesson in dedication, vision and proper planning.

But what does the fraternity, especially here in Calcutta, think of Aizwal's success? What is the significance of their I-League win? What lessons could be learnt from Aizawl? After all, barring Mohun Bagan's league victory in 2015-16, success has eluded the city clubs for a long time.

Former East Bengal coach Manoranjan Bhattacharya, who is currently part of the club's advisory committee, said: "The excitement about football in the Northeast tremendous. They love their football, cricket hasn't made inroads in the hills. So Aizawl winning the I-League bodes well for the game. We need different states to come up, we need new champions... That will help Indian football."

Manoranjan feels that the local players have made a difference for Aizawl. "They mostly have local players in the team and that is always an advantage. Of course, they have to be quality players, no point taking local guys just for the sake of it."

Biswajit Bhattacharya, who too has coached the big clubs of the city, echoed Manoranjan when he said that Aizawl have successfully groomed local players. "They had a proper plan... They groomed the local players well under Jahar Das's guidance. See what a difference they have made. When Bengal dominated in the national football scene, we too had good local players," he said.

"Also, it is good for Indian football that players are coming up from a region that is so passionate about football. World over, whichever country has done well in the game, it has been possible only when football is a passion with the mass. The way the people of Northeast love their football, their dedication, it will only help Indian football."

Satyajit Chatterjee, a former player who is currently associated with the Mohun Bagan administration, said Aizawl will have to show stability before one can decide upon the significance of their win. "Many big Indian clubs have faded out in the recent years... Dempo, Salgaocar, Mahindra United... So let them stay at the top for some years, then we will decide."

Satyajit didn't agree that clubs like Bagan and East Bengal have much to learn from Aizawl, but added that they will serve as an inspiration for many. "Aizawl's success can be an inspiration for many."