Srinagar: In a first of its kind, Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake is all set to host a maiden Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) from August 21 to 23.
Officials said that the three-day event will see more than 400 athletes from 36 States and Union Territories, competing in medal events including rowing, canoeing and kayaking.
They say demonstration events like water skiing, dragon boat race and a special shikara sprint have also been lined up.
The festival is being organized jointly by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the J&K Sports Council. Authorities said the event is aimed at positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for water sports, on the lines of Gulmarg’s success as a winter sports destination.
“This is not just an event, but the beginning of a new era for water sports in our country,” Olympian Bilquis Mir, who started paddling in Dal Lake in the 1990s, said as per KNO. “I am certain this will inspire our young athletes to dream bigger,” she added.
Similarly, local athletes, too, see the festival as a chance to shine.
Mohsin Ali, a Kayaking Champion from J&K with over 15 national medals, said he is determined to make the Valley proud.
Beyond sports, the festival will also highlight Dal Lake’s cultural and ecological importance. “Cleaning drives have been intensified, while the mascot — Himalayan Kingfisher — and the logo featuring a shikara will symbolise the lake’s identity,” said officials.
Meanwhile, Shikara operator and former water sports athlete Mohammad Rafiq Malla said the festival will benefit locals as well. “This will bring new opportunities for athletes and also for people like us who depend on the lake for livelihood,” he said.
Notably, Dal Lake, often called the ‘jewel of Srinagar,’ will now echo not just with Shikaras and floating gardens but also with the splash of oars and cheers of athletes, scripting a new sporting chapter in Kashmir—(KNO)
