Kupwara | 23rd July 2025: The 6th District Kupwara Pencak Silat Championship 2025 commenced today with an energetic and inspiring Opening Ceremony held at the Indoor Sports Hall, Handwara. The event was inaugurated in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, dedicated athletes, and sports enthusiasts from across the district.
The Chief Guest, Professor G. R. Ganaie, Principal of Government Degree College Handwara, officially declared the championship open. In his address, he applauded the efforts of the District Kupwara Pencak Silat Association and emphasized the importance of martial arts in shaping the physical and mental strength of youth. He described Pencak Silat as a sport that builds discipline, character, and cultural pride, and urged young athletes to stay committed to their sporting dreams.
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Zahoor Ahmad, Deputy Manager, Indoor Sports Hall Handwara, appreciated the growing popularity of Pencak Silat in Kupwara and pledged his continued support for sports development in the district. He praised the association for providing a platform where students and youth from different backgrounds can come together in the spirit of sportsmanship.
A special highlight of the ceremony was the presence of Mr. Aadil Manzoor Peer, International Medalist in Pencak Silat, who has represented India on global platforms and is a source of pride for Jammu & Kashmir. Mr. Peer shared motivating words with the participants, encouraging them to stay focused, train hard, and dream beyond boundaries.
More than 200 players, including both boys and girls, have registered for the championship. These athletes represent a vibrant mix of schools, clubs, academies, and educational institutes from various parts of the district. The championship features competitions in multiple age and weight categories across both genders, in all formats of Pencak Silat, as recognized by the J&K Sports Council and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
The event, organized by the District Kupwara Pencak Silat Association under the banner of the Pencak Silat Association of J&K, serves as a selection ground for the upcoming State-Level Championship.
The opening day was filled with thrilling bouts, vibrant team parades, and energetic performances, reflecting the true spirit of unity, discipline, and cultural pride that Pencak Silat promotes.
The championship will continue tomorrow with final rounds and the closing ceremony, where the winners will be felicitated and selected for further representation.
