Over 200 Players Participate; MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami Inaugurates Event
Danishwar Hameed
Kulgam, July 16: The 9th Pencak Silat Championship 2025 kicked off with great enthusiasm in Kulgam district, drawing the participation of over 200 athletes from across the region. The championship is being hosted under the banner of the Jammu and Kashmir Pencak Silat Association and organized by the District Pencak Silat Association Kulgam.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, who attended as the chief guest. He was joined by Additional Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Kulgam, District Development Council (DDC) member Mohammad Abbas Rather, and Dr. Mubashir Hussain Malik, Director of Sports at the Islamic University.
During the opening ceremony, MLA Tarigami officially declared the championship open and extended his best wishes to the participating athletes. He also commended the efforts of the District Pencak Silat Association and emphasized the importance of promoting sports at the grassroots level.
"The continued organization of such events not only provides a platform for local talent to shine but also plays a vital role in the physical and mental development of our youth," said Tarigami in his address.
The championship features competitions in multiple categories including junior, sub-junior, senior, and pre-teen divisions. A large number of spectators, including parents and community members, gathered to witness the event and cheer on the young athletes.
The tournament is being held in coordination with the Youth Services and Sports Department Kulgam, reflecting a collaborative effort to boost sports culture in the district.
Organizers expect the championship to conclude with a strong message of unity, discipline, and sporting spirit among the youth of Kulgam.
