SRINAGAR: Dal Lake witnessed its first-ever traditional women’s boat race on Sunday, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Amateur Rowing and Sculling Association (JKARS). Over 150 women participated in the race.
The event was led by Bilquis Mir, India’s first female jury member for water sports at the recent Paris Olympics. Mir, in collaboration with her team from the Jammu and Kashmir Watersports and Kayaking/Canoeing Association, ensured a smoothly organised event.
Initiating the event was Suresh B Kapadia from Nashik, Maharashtra, an advocate for Kashmir’s socio-economic development and a proponent of tourism in the region, particularly in Gurez. His contributions, both to tourism and to youth empowerment in Kashmir, have positively impacted the Valley, paving the way for events like this one.
The competition was a showcase of talent and skill, with many of the women participants being artisans who craft bags for the globally recognised brand Caprese. Every participant received a certificate of appreciation and cash prizes, with special awards reserved for the top three finishers.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Burhan, President of JKARS, and a felicitation for Bilquis Mir by VC LCMA, Younis Malik, who honored her for her exceptional contributions to sports and for uplifting the Valley’s reputation.
Other personalities attended the event, including Special Secretary of Tourism Mathura Masoom, Masrat Parveen, Principal of BHSS Nowpora, Souliihaa Rasool, founder of Holistic Minds and Soul, and broadcaster Tabraiz Nik Madani, who lent their support to this historic initiative in women’s sports in Kashmir.
