Sheikh Sameer
Baramulla, 17 June 2025 (TKD)— In a vibrant display of community spirit and athletic energy, Baramulla witnessed the grand inauguration of the district’s largest sports festival yet — “Varmul Gindo 2025”. Organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council and the District Sports Association Baramulla in collaboration with the Indian Army’s Dagger Division, the month-long event has brought together over 1600 athletes from across the district.
The opening ceremony, held in the presence of dignitaries, local leaders, and an enthusiastic crowd of over 2,000 spectators, marked a new chapter in Baramulla’s sporting history. The festival will feature over 20 sporting disciplines across 12 venues, with participation from more than 75 teams, including both boys and girls.
Among the featured sports are Football, Volleyball, Handball, Jr Cricket, Hockey, Basketball, Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Table Tennis, Badminton, Chess, Carrom, Karate, Wushu, and Athletics. For the first time in Baramulla, niche and competitive sports like Fencing, Snooker, Billiards, Power Lifting, Bodybuilding, and Women’s Rugby have also been introduced.
The Games were formally declared open by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Dagger Division, who urged all participants to play with integrity and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship.
A female Rugby player participating in the festival called the inclusion of new sports “a wonderful step by the J&K State Council and the Indian Army to give such a wide platform for exposure to so many sportspersons like us.”
Mr. Sheikh Mushtaq, former official of the J&K Sports Department, praised the Indian Army’s support in organizing the event. “The Army’s collaboration, especially the efforts of the Dagger Division, has been commendable. Varmul Gindo is a testament to community collaboration and the power of sports to unite people,” he said.
District Sports Association President Mr. Omar Kakroo highlighted the significance of the event in promoting youth engagement. “This festival represents a major effort to foster sporting excellence in our community. We believe it will ignite a passion for sports among Baramulla’s youth,” he stated.
Junaid Mir, a student of Government Degree College Baramulla, echoed the excitement, saying, “I have never seen such a mega sports event in the district. It’s heartening to see the Sports Association and the Army supporting our aspirations.”
Prominent youth leader Touseef Raina stressed the social impact of the festival. “Baramulla has been struggling with rising drug addiction cases. Events like these give our youth a positive outlet, steering them away from harmful paths,” he remarked.
Varmul Gindo 2025 stands as a significant initiative to promote not just sports but also community well-being, youth development, and district-wide engagement. As the games progress over the coming weeks, Baramulla will witness a celebration of talent, teamwork, and hope for a brighter, more active future.
The Kashmir Dialogues
