Varmul Gindo 2025 Grand Finals: Amargarh, KIC, and Harmukh Warriors Dazzle in Volleyball, Kabaddi, and Karate Showdown…read more
The much-anticipated grand finals of Varmul Gindo 2025 concluded in Baramulla on Sunday with an electric atmosphere, stunning athleticism, and resounding community support. Featuring adrenaline-pumping volleyball, fiercely contested kabaddi matches, and high-octane karate showdowns, the event celebrated the sports spirit of Jammu and Kashmir in a colorful crescendo of competition and cultural unity. The final day witnessed dominant performances from teams like Amargarh, KIC (Kashmir International Club), and the Harmukh Warriors—who all etched their names into the region’s sporting annals with remarkable victories and spirited displays.
Organized as part of the district-wide effort to promote grassroots sports and youth engagement, Varmul Gindo 2025 drew participation from over 70 villages and town teams over the last two months. The finals, held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, drew an estimated crowd of over 12,000 spectators, including sports officials, government dignitaries, and proud family members.
Amargarh Rules the Volleyball Court
In volleyball, Amargarh emerged as the undisputed champions after a thrilling 3-2 victory against Sopore Spikers in the final. The five-set match kept fans on the edge of their seats with relentless rallies, powerful spikes, and diving saves. Led by captain Rizwan Ahmad, Amargarh relied on strategic serves and seamless teamwork to gain an early 2-1 lead. Sopore responded with a gritty fourth set comeback, but Amargarh held firm in the decisive fifth, clinching it 15-12.
“This means everything to us,” Rizwan said post-match, holding the glittering trophy aloft. “We’ve practiced for months with a dream to win Varmul Gindo. The support from our village has been incredible.”
The volleyball finals were particularly noted for the emergence of 19-year-old Zahid Mir, whose consistent blocking and serving earned him the Best Player of the Tournament accolade. Zahid has already caught the attention of regional scouts and could be in line for selection in upcoming national-level junior championships.
KIC Reclaims Kabaddi Glory
In the kabaddi finals, the seasoned squad of Kashmir International Club (KIC) defeated their fierce rivals from Kreeri by a scoreline of 38-29. Known for their tactical raiding and agile defense, KIC demonstrated sheer dominance through the match, with captain Aadil Lone executing seven successful raids and defender Irfan Dar pulling off five critical tackles.
“This title was personal for us,” Lone said. “We lost narrowly last year in the semis. This time, we trained smarter and played as a unit. Winning in front of our home crowd is a dream come true.”
The match also saw an emotional farewell for KIC veteran Mehraj Baba, 33, who announced his retirement after a 12-year-long kabaddi journey. He received a standing ovation from the crowd and was honored with a special medal for his contribution to the sport in the region.
Harmukh Warriors Strike in Karate
The martial arts arena was set ablaze with powerful kicks, tactical footwork, and tremendous focus as Harmukh Warriors dominated the karate finals, claiming the highest number of medals across all weight categories. Competing against the tenacious Kupwara Tigers, the Warriors showcased superior form, clinching 6 out of 8 gold medals.
Leading the charge was 17-year-old prodigy Asma Bano, who won both her kata and kumite categories. With lightning-fast movements and poise well beyond her years, Asma’s performance stunned the judges and audience alike. She was awarded the “Karate Star of the Tournament” and is being tipped for selection to the upcoming national championships in Pune later this year.
Coach Faheem Qadri praised the young athletes: “Karate isn’t just about fighting—it’s about discipline, balance, and inner strength. These kids are living proof of what focused training and self-belief can achieve.”
Cultural Extravaganza and Official Recognition
The grand finals weren’t just about sports. The stadium hosted cultural performances from local artists, including Kashmiri folk music, traditional dance, and Sufi poetry recitations. Food stalls offered wazwan delicacies, and a crafts exhibition displayed the region’s famed papier-mâché and handwoven shawls.
In attendance was Baramulla Deputy Commissioner Dr. Syed Tahir Geelani, who hailed the initiative as “a milestone in youth development and regional harmony.” During his speech, Dr. Geelani announced that top performers from the tournament would be enrolled into a newly launched district sports academy, designed to provide long-term coaching and mentorship.
“We want our young athletes to dream big,” said Geelani. “Varmul Gindo is not just a tournament—it’s a stepping stone toward national and even international platforms.”
Community Engagement and Legacy
The impact of Varmul Gindo 2025 extends far beyond the courts and mats. Across villages like Delina, Uri, Kunzer, and Pattan, young boys and girls have found inspiration to join sports clubs. Local businesses contributed sponsorships, and former athletes volunteered as referees and mentors. The event has sparked conversations about the importance of structured sports infrastructure in the valley and rekindled traditional games that had faded into memory.
Organizing committee head Junaid Qureshi emphasized the need for continuity: “This momentum must not fade. We’re proposing inter-district championships next, and eventually, an annual Kashmir Games event.”
Looking Ahead
As the sun set behind the Pir Panjal range and fireworks lit up the Baramulla sky, one thing became clear: Varmul Gindo 2025 was more than just a sporting event—it was a celebration of community, resilience, and youthful ambition. Whether it was Amargarh’s fearless volleyball, KIC’s kabaddi dominance, or the Harmukh Warriors’ karate brilliance, the finals showcased the incredible talent brewing in the heart of Kashmir.
With fresh dreams ignited and new heroes born, the legacy of Varmul Gindo promises to inspire generations to come. The fu
ture of sports in Kashmir looks brighter than ever.
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