Srinagar turns into a celebration of endurance and unity as Kashmir Marathon draws 1,500 runners

Srinagar: The tranquil streets of Kashmir’s summer capital turned into a buzzing track of determination and camaraderie on Sunday as more than 1,500 runners from across India and abroad participated in the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025.

The event, organised by the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, was flagged off at dawn from the historic Polo View Market, transforming the heart of Srinagar into a spectacle of colour, energy, and unity.

Runners from 27 Indian states and 11 countries — including Germany, Denmark, the USA, Ethiopia, Kenya, Japan, and Sri Lanka — took part in the marathon, which officials described as a “festival of fitness and peace.” Their participation, organisers said, underscores Kashmir’s growing reputation as an emerging destination for international sports tourism.

The scenic race route meandered along the Dal Lake, past the Mughal gardens, and through chinar-lined boulevards with the Zabarwan range forming a majestic backdrop. Both full (42 km) and half (21 km) marathon categories were featured, with a total prize purse of ₹25 lakh up for grabs. The official route, organisers said, offered runners a blend of flat stretches and moderate climbs, with an elevation gain of nearly 960 metres.

Adding star power and political weight to the event, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty joined the marathon in different capacities. Omar completed the half marathon and later posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Just completed the Kashmir Half Marathon. I didn’t set a personal best but improved on last year’s effort. Congratulations to all runners of the full and half marathon.”

Suniel Shetty, who cheered runners and interacted with participants, called the event “a symbol of peace and unity.”

“What a beautiful morning this is… just look at the spirit of people running for Kashmir, for India. It’s truly wonderful,” he said.

The actor, who arrived in Srinagar a day earlier and took a shikara ride on Dal Lake, said he felt “the Valley’s old charm returning.” “This winter looks beautiful for the people of Kashmir,” he added, drawing loud applause from participants and locals.

Officials said the presence of prominent figures reflected the administration’s ongoing effort to project Kashmir as a peaceful, welcoming region through sport and tourism. Omar Abdullah had also flagged off the first international marathon in the Valley last year, calling it part of a campaign to show that “Kashmir is peaceful and open for global events.”

Tourism officials said the marathon was more than an athletic contest — it was a “statement of confidence.”

“The idea is to blend sport with tourism. The route has been designed to showcase the Valley’s natural beauty and cultural richness,” a Tourism Department official said.

In last year’s run-up to the inaugural edition, a three-day Marathon Expo at Polo View brought together local artisans, handicraft sellers, and tourism operators, offering a platform to promote Kashmir’s economy through sporting events.

As runners crossed the finish line to the sound of Kashmiri folk music and the sight of Dal Lake shimmering in the early sunlight, the message was clear — Kashmir is running towards a future of peace, vitality, and global connection.