Srinagar, November 2, 2025 – Under a crisp November sky, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah once again laced up for the Kashmir Marathon 2025, completing the 21 km half-marathon with renewed vigor and marking a triumphant second edition for the event. Flagged off at Polo View Stadium alongside a constellation of dignitaries, the marathon – now a cornerstone of J&K tourism – saw over 3,500 participants from more than 40 countries, surpassing last year’s milestone and cementing Kashmir’s status as an emerging hub for international athletics.The festivities commenced at 6:00 AM, with CM Abdullah, a vocal advocate for fitness and regional revival, leading the ceremonial start. Echoing his 2024 performance, Abdullah crossed the finish line to cheers from locals and runners alike, sharing on X: “Just completed the Kashmir Half Marathon. I didn’t set a personal best but I did improve on my effort last year. Congratulations to all the runners who completed the full marathon & the half marathon. Well done . #KashmirMarathon.” Accompanied by family and security detail, his run through the iconic routes – skirting Dal Lake’s shimmering waters, weaving past Mughal Gardens, and ascending toward the Zabarwan foothills – symbolized personal grit and the valley’s burgeoning spirit.Organized by the J&K Department of Tourism in partnership with the Athletics Federation of India, this year’s event expanded categories to include a 42 km full marathon, 21 km half, 10 km challenge, 5 km fun run, and a new 3 km youth dash for schoolchildren.
A ₹3.5 crore prize purse drew elite athletes, with Kenyan runner Kipchoge-inspired paces dominating the full marathon. Bollywood’s Suniel Shetty, who co-flagged the inaugural 2024 edition, sent virtual cheers via video message, praising the “unbelievable” evolution: “From last year’s magic to this global spectacle – Kashmir’s paradise run keeps getting better!”The marathon’s paths, adorned with autumnal chinar leaves and live cultural performances, highlighted Kashmir’s “Paradise on Foot” theme. Pre-race perks for international participants included gondola rides in Gulmarg, saffron-harvest tours in Pampore, and wellness sessions with local yoga gurus, fostering deeper cultural ties. Director Tourism, Kashmir, Mahmood A. Shah, emphasized the economic ripple: “With ₹75 crore projected in tourism inflows, events like this affirm our peaceful narrative post-G20 and elections.” Srinagar’s traffic police managed diversions seamlessly, closing key arteries like Residency Road from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while alternate routes via the Boulevard ensured minimal disruptions.As J&K transitions into winter with the ongoing Darbar Move to Jammu – where administrative gears shift southward today – the marathon injects vitality into Srinagar’s fading foliage season.
Omar Abdullah, sworn in as CM just weeks ago, tied the event to broader governance: “This isn’t merely a race; it’s our stride toward statehood aspirations, youth empowerment, and a terror-free tomorrow.” Winners were honored at a starlit ceremony, with top prizes awarded amid Kashmiri folk dances and feasts of wazwan delicacies.Building on 2024’s success – where Abdullah’s spontaneous 21 km finish went viral – the 2025 edition eyes World Athletics certification, aiming to rival marathons in Berlin and New York. Organizers tease 2026 expansions, including wheelchair categories and eco-runs. For participants and spectators, it was more than miles: a testament to resilience, where every step echoed Kashmir’s harmonious blend of heritage and horizon.
