Srinagar, April 12, 2025, – A surge of enthusiasm for carrom is captivating Kashmiri youth, transforming the tabletop game into a cultural phenomenon across the valley. The Jammu and Kashmir Carrom Association has unveiled plans to double its carrom tournaments in 2025, aiming to channel this growing passion into opportunities for competition and skill development.
Carrom, a game of precision and strategy, has struck a chord with young Kashmiris, from Srinagar’s urban centers to rural villages in South Kashmir. The JKCA’s decision to expand its tournament schedule comes on the heels of successful events like the 4th J&K UT Level Carrom Championship in February and the District Anantnag Carrom Championship in January, which drew significant participation. “The response has been overwhelming,” said Adil Rashid Shah, president of the JKCA. “We’re planning more tournaments, from district-level contests to UT-wide events, to give players a chance to shine.”
The association, backed by the J&K Sports Council, intends to host competitions in districts such as Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla, alongside open-ranking and inter-institutional championships. This push aligns with the My Youth My Pride initiative, which promotes sports as a means of youth empowerment. “Carrom is uniting communities and keeping young people engaged,” said Nusrat Gazal, Divisional Sports Officer, who has played a key role in organizing recent tournaments.
For players like Furqan Nazir, a Srinagar native who competed at the 29th All India Federation Cup in Andhra Pradesh, carrom is a source of pride and ambition. His achievements have inspired others to aim high, with many eyeing the 52nd AAI Senior National Carrom Championship in New Delhi later this year. Beyond competition, the sport is fostering camaraderie and discipline, offering a positive outlet for the region’s youth.
The tournament boom is also creating ripples in local economies, with events drawing crowds and boosting small businesses. As carrom’s popularity soars, the JKCA is urging players to register with district associations to ensure eligibility for upcoming championships. With a packed calendar ahead, Kashmir’s carrom fever shows no signs of slowing down, promising a vibrant year for the sport and its young enthusiasts.