Indian Army Concludes ‘Kashmiruk Funkaar – Season III’ with Grand Cultural Finale in Bandipora

 

Wahid Rafiqi

 

Bandipora, Dec 20: The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army successfully concluded “Kashmiruk Funkaar – Season III” with a vibrant grand finale at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, Bandipora, on Saturday marking the culmination of a three-week-long youth-centric initiative conducted from 03 to 20 December 2025.

 

A Defence Spokesperson in Srinagar told Kashmir Convener that the program was part of sustained efforts to empower youth and promote socio-cultural harmony under Project Sadbhavana.

 

He said the flagship programme was organised across N. M. Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Kaloosa, and Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, Bandipora, and was designed to holistically engage young people through a structured blend of sports, awareness and cultural activities, while strengthening the Army–Awam bond.

 

The grand finale was attended by Major General Tushar Sharma, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Kilo Force, as Chief Guest.

 

Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib, Brigadier Hemant Singh Ponwar, VSM, Commander 3 Sector Rashtriya Rifles, Brigadier N. R. Babu (Retd), DIG Sector Headquarters BSF, and SSP Bandipora Ajaz Zargar, among other senior officers and civil administration representatives.

 

Adding colour and vibrancy to the event, several renowned Bollywood and local artists graced the occasion, including Mir Sarwar, Shahid Latief, Qayoom Badshah, Saniya Mir, Simran K, and popular singer Ishfaq Kawa.

 

Despite the biting winter cold, a large gathering of youth—men, women and children—turned up in high spirits, cheering performances that kept the atmosphere lively and energetic.

 

Officials said Kashmiruk Funkaar Season III was executed in three structured phases to engage students during the winter break.

 

He said Phase I focused on sports camps promoting physical fitness, discipline and teamwork, featuring activities such as Self-Defence, Kickboxing, Pencak Silat, Mallakhamb and Ice Stock.

 

The Phase II comprised awareness capsules on socially relevant themes including Anti-Drug Awareness, Hygiene and Sanitation, Know Your Army, Artificial Intelligence and Career Counselling, delivered through interactive sessions by eminent guest speakers from diverse fields.

 

According to the spokesperson, Phase III showcased competitive events celebrating Kashmiri talent through singing, dancing, painting, traditional musical instruments and Kangri-making, with separate categories for participants below and above 18 years of age.

 

Special interactive zones were also set up to provide hands-on exposure in areas of physical fitness, self-defence, technological awareness and traditional art forms, offering students a comprehensive learning experience.

 

The enthusiastic participation throughout the season reflected the immense potential of youth in the region and their eagerness to engage positively.

 

Organisers attributed the success of the programme to the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Padma Shri awardee Faisal Ali Dar and his team, Sohail Lone of Taha Film International, along with strong support from the civil administration, educational institutions, parents and community leaders.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Army officials reiterated that initiatives like Kashmiruk Funkaar aim to channelise youthful energy in a constructive direction by blending sports, culture, awareness and dialogue, thereby contributing to long-term peace, progress and social cohesion in the Kashmir Valley.

 

While remaining steadfast in its primary responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s borders and maintaining peace, the Chinar Corps continues to actively contribute towards youth empowerment, cultural preservation and skill development, inspiring the next generation to participate meaningfully in nation-building.