The Kashmir Dialogues
Varmul Gindo 2025 continues to be a beacon of talent and opportunity in Baramulla, and the snooker arena has quickly emerged as one of the most captivating segments of the festival. Held at the B Town Club in Khwajabagh, the latest matches drew packed audiences and delivered high-intensity drama, precise cue work, and stories of grit and determination.
In Match 1, Nayeem faced off against Adnan in a contest that was a masterclass in calmness under pressure. Nayeem, with his trademark focus and fluid movements, dominated the table right from the start. Though Adnan made a strong effort with some clever safeties and a few crucial pots, it was Nayeem who held his nerve and executed a flawless final break to seal the game. “Snooker teaches patience and control — skills I apply in everyday life,” said Nayeem, a 21-year-old commerce student who picked up the sport just three years ago using a borrowed cue and hours of YouTube tutorials.
Match 2 saw Suhail take on Salman in another exciting showdown. The game was evenly matched, with both players displaying tactical brilliance and long-range potting accuracy. Suhail, known for his aggressive playing style and quick thinking, gained a slight lead in the middle frame and never looked back. With a stunning long red and a calculated clearance, he wrapped up the game in style. “This win is for my father, who always believed I could make a name in something I love,” said Suhail, fighting back tears as he embraced his family after the win.
Both matches had participation strengths of two, but the impact they created in the minds of the 60-member audience in each was profound. Many young spectators, especially schoolchildren, were seen watching intently — a clear sign of growing interest in cue sports in Baramulla.
The snooker scene at Varmul Gindo has not just been about competition but about transformation. Take the story of Salman, for example. Though he lost the match, his journey into the sport is nothing short of inspirational. Hailing from a modest background in Kreeri, Salman used to practice on a broken table in a friend’s shop after hours. “Reaching this stage was never part of the plan — I just loved the game,” he shared with a smile, vowing to come back stronger next year.
Adnan, too, has had a remarkable journey. A mechanic by day and snooker enthusiast by night, he used the sport to cope with personal hardships. “Snooker gave me peace and purpose,” he said.
Varmul Gindo 2025 has proven once again that the festival is not just a sports event — it’s a celebration of stories, dreams, and young heroes who dare to challenge odds. The cue may be small, the table limited in size, but the dreams sparked here are vast.
As the snooker lights dimmed and the crowd slowly left the hall, one thing was certain — the youth of Baramulla are cueing up for a bright future.
