Martial arts fever grips Kashmir as 500 youth compete for glory

Srinagar, Nov 24: In a spectacular showcase of martial arts talent, over 500 young athletes competed in the Cadet, Sub-Junior, and Junior Sqay Championship 2024-25, held from November 22-24 at Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Shopian.

DIG SKOR Alok Avasthy presided over the closing ceremony alongside distinguished guests including Shopian MLA Advocate Shabir Ahmad Kullay, CRPF 2IC Nitesh Kumar, and 14 Battalion Assistant Commander Shubham.

Ganderbal District emerged victorious, clinching the overall championship trophy, with Pulwama and Srinagar securing second and third positions respectively.

The highlight of the ceremony was the felicitation of local heroes Mir Arsalan Mehraj and Disha Pandith, who recently conquered the 4th World Sqay Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. DIG Avasthy personally honoured these champions, whose success stories inspired the young competitors.

Sqay Grandmaster Nazir Ahmad Mir delivered a stirring address, emphasizing the values of dedication and perseverance in martial arts.

The three-day championship marked a significant milestone in promoting Sqay, Kashmir's Indigenous martial art while providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills.