Srinagar: Downtown Srinagar on Sunday witnessed the return of the iconic Khyber Run for Shahr-e-Khaas after a gap of nearly a decade, with MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq leading the event both as chief guest and participant.
Held with the message of promoting a drug-free Kashmir, the heritage run brought together more than 160 professional and amateur athletes in a celebration of fitness, culture and community spirit across the historic lanes of old Srinagar.
Inspired by the vision of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to encourage youth engagement and positive social initiatives, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from athletes and residents alike.
Unlike a ceremonial appearance, Tanvir Sadiq joined the runners on the route through Downtown Srinagar before later distributing prizes among athletes and participating clubs during the concluding ceremony.
The event was jointly organised by KSW and Fucan Sports, with Khyber Cement as title sponsor.
The run started from Badamwari at the foothills of Hari Parbat Fort and passed through historic localities including Kathi Darwaza, Chattipadshahi, Rainawari, Khanyar and Rajouri Kadal before culminating at Islamia College of Science and Commerce.
Addressing the concluding ceremony, Tanvir Sadiq described the revival of the event as an emotional and symbolic moment for Srinagar’s old city.
“Ten years ago, I stood at this very event as a guest and flagged off the run. I never imagined that one day I would myself participate in it. Running today through the historic lanes of Shahr-e-Khaas was truly special because every street, every corner and every stone here carries its own story, culture and legacy,” he said.
Appreciating the athletes and organisers, he said the participation of youth from districts including Baramulla, Kupwara, Anantnag and Shopian reflected growing awareness among young people about fitness, health and staying away from drugs.
Calling the event more than just a sporting competition, Tanvir said the run offered an opportunity to reconnect with Kashmir’s heritage and history.
He also praised the public response witnessed along the route and said residents came out in large numbers to cheer participants.
“The spirit of Downtown Srinagar truly came alive today. Residents from every walk of life came out to encourage the runners and appreciate the effort,” he said.
Tehmina Yousuf, Principal of Islamia College of Science and Commerce and guest of honour at the event, said the revival of the run successfully blended sports, heritage and youth participation.
“It is a matter of pride for Islamia College to host the concluding ceremony of such a meaningful and historic event. Events like these inspire young people towards healthy lifestyles while also helping them appreciate the rich cultural legacy of Srinagar’s old city,” she said.
Among others present were fitness expert Sajad Hyder, SHO Nowhatta Iftikhar Ahmad, MD NITians Sheikh Mubashir, Director Medialine Muhammad Yaseen, Director Posh Enterprises Shabir Ahmed, Imaginor head Ruhaan, officials from the Health Department and Traffic Police, besides athletes and representatives of sports clubs from across Jammu and Kashmir.
