SRINAGAR: Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, along with MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, on Thursday unveiled the logo, mascot, anthem, jingle, and official jerseys for athletes, officials, volunteers, and support staff of the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025.
For the first time, Jammu and Kashmir will host the festival on the pristine waters of Dal Lake, Srinagar, from August 21 to 23.
The festival’s mascot, inspired by the Himalayan Kingfisher, embodies the spirit of adventure, courage, and harmony with nature. Its vibrant orange and blue hues reflect energy, tranquility, and the scenic beauty of Kashmir, promoting eco-friendly sports, tourism, and youth engagement nationwide.
The official logo features a Shikara gliding on Dal Lake, framed by snow-capped mountains and pine trees, symbolizing Kashmir’s beauty while combining Khelo India’s colors to represent tradition, nature, and sporting energy.
The festival’s anthem and jingles celebrate Kashmir’s landscapes, cultural heritage, and youthful energy. Composed in Kashmiri, Urdu, and Hindi, the tracks evoke pride, unity, and aspiration, inspiring athletes while blending soulful imagery with uplifting beats.
Addressing the occasion, Minister Satish Sharma highlighted that around 800 athletes and hundreds of officials from 28 states and eight Union Territories would participate, returning as ambassadors for Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the festival would boost both sports and tourism in the region.
MLA Tanvir Sadiq added that hosting such a major event would uplift the regional economy and establish Dal Lake as a national hub for water sports, following Gulmarg’s recognition as India’s winter sports capital.
Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare and Youth Services, Sarmad Hafeez, noted that stakeholders including hoteliers, shikarawalas, travel agents, and government departments have been engaged to ensure the event’s success. The festival will also showcase the region’s diverse cultures, including Kashmiri, Gujjar-Bakerwal, Dard Shina, and Dogri. Registrations are managed by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and Doordarshan will provide live coverage.
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of J&K Sports Council, delivered the vote of thanks.
The festival, set to inaugurate on August 21, will bring national attention to Dal Lake and local athletes while celebrating Kashmir’s culture, handicrafts, art, and tourism. All concerned departments—Tourism, PDD, Jal Shakti, Traffic, Hospitality and Protocol, Civil Aviation, LCMA, Handicrafts and Handloom, SDRF, Health, and Fire Services—have been instructed to ensure smooth operations.
The event will feature competitions in Kayaking, Canoeing, and Rowing, alongside demonstration sports such as Dragon Boat, Water Skiing, and a Shikara Race. Dedicated State Liaison Officers will facilitate each participating team.
The opening ceremony promises a grand spectacle with a drone light show, traditional folk performances, celebrity acts, and stalls showcasing local cuisine, art, and SHG products.
Organized by the J&K Sports Council in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India, the Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 is set to be a landmark celebration of Kashmir’s natural beauty, adventure spirit, and cultural richness.
