SRINAGAR: The second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025 concluded in Srinagar on Sunday, radiating a spirit of unity, peace, and renewal as over 1,500 runners from across India and abroad took to the streets in what officials hailed as one of the Valley’s largest public events of the year.
Organised by the Department of Tourism Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with the JK Sports Council, the marathon was flagged off at dawn from Polo View on Residency Road by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty. The event featured athletes from 27 states and 11 countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Japan, Germany, Denmark, the United States, and Sri Lanka.
The marathon route, described by participants as among the most scenic in the world, passed the shimmering Dal Lake, Zabarwan foothills, Pari Mahal, and Mughal Gardens, with the full marathon ending at Hazratbal and the half marathon concluding at Makhai Point.
The winner of the full marathon received a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh, with additional rewards for runners-up. The event, supported by multiple government departments, was also seen as a significant step in reviving public morale and promoting tourism following the recent Pahalgam attack.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who completed the half marathon, said the event reflected Kashmir’s resilience and optimism. “The spirit of Kashmir is stronger than fear,” he told participants before the flag-off. “We are showing the world that Kashmir is open, peaceful, and ready to welcome everyone — from athletes to artists.”
Sunil Shetty, serving as the event’s star guest, called the marathon “a celebration of unity and peace.” He praised the enthusiasm of the participants, noting, “It’s wonderful to see people from across India and the world running together for Kashmir. This energy shows that the Valley is truly back on its feet.”
Shetty, who toured several local attractions before the event, said the Valley’s positive transformation was visible. “This winter will be one of the most beautiful for Kashmir,” he remarked, adding that several film producers were planning shoots in the region. “It’s our duty to support Kashmir — the most beautiful place on Earth.”
Sports Minister Satish Sharma said the marathon represented “peace, love, and brotherhood,” while tourism officials described it as part of a broader strategy to position Kashmir as a global destination for endurance and adventure sports.
International athletes also lauded the organisation and setting of the marathon. A participant from Kenya described it as “a challenging yet breathtaking experience.”
The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony at Hazratbal, where winners were honoured in the presence of dignitaries, athletes, and cheering crowds.
As the sun dipped behind the Zabarwan Range, officials said the Kashmir Marathon 2025 had not only reaffirmed the Valley’s reputation for beauty and hospitality but also symbolised its unbreakable resolve to stride forward in peace.
