Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Aug 21 : The first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) began at Dal Lake, Srinagar, with over 800 athletes and officials from across India participating in kayaking, rowing, canoeing, dragon boat racing, and other water sports.
Before the formal proceedings, the festival opened with a colourful dance procession showcasing Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.
According to details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), performances included Kashmiri Rouf, Baand Pather, Damabel dance, Kashmiri Pandit community dance, as well as Gojri and Dogri dances, captivating the audience and officials with vibrant costumes and rhythmic moves.
“This is amazing! The combination of sports and our traditional dances is a treat to watch,” said Ayesha Malik, a visitor from Srinagar.
She added that the energy of the dancers and the athletes is inspiring. “It is a great way to experience the spirit of Kashmir.”
Nazir Ahmad from Nishat said it feels great to see culture and young talent showcased together. “The lake, the dances, and the sports—it is all so lively. The youth here are making us proud,” he said.
As the festival moved into competitions, athletes from Delhi, Odisha, Chandigarh, Andaman, and other regions took to Dal Lake’s calm waters.
Alongside kayaking and rowing, events like water skiing and shikara racing added extra thrill to the festival, highlighting Kashmir’s potential as a hub for water sports—(KNO)
