PEERZADA SAYEED
Keran, Sept 20(JKNS): The Indian Army in collaboration with District Administration Kupwara organised Keran Mela 2026.
The 15th day of Keran Mela 2026 witnessed a vibrant celebration of sports, fitness and community participation as the 10-kilometre “Run for Fun” and the much awaited Cricket Final brought together hundreds of participants, sports enthusiasts and spectators from across the Keran Bowl.
The “Run for Fun” was flagged off from Kundian. The participants covered a challenging 10-kilometre route from Kundian to the iconic Rooh-e-Hind Flag Site, Keran, showcasing remarkable enthusiasm, endurance and sporting spirit.
The run witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth, senior citizens and participants from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The participation reflected the growing popularity of fitness and sporting activities in the border region.
A particularly impressive performance came from the participant who secured first position, completing the 10 kilometre run in approximately 20 minutes, demonstrating exceptional speed, stamina and determination.
Participants were recognised in different age categories, including Under 30 and Over 30 categories, with winners securing first, second and third positions. More than 100 participants were also presented Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of their participation and sporting spirit.
The participation of runners from outside the Keran Bowl and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir further added to the spirit of inclusivity and community participation associated with Keran Mela 2026.
The event reflected the growing importance of sports and fitness activities in the border villages, providing young people with an opportunity to come together, compete in a healthy environment and celebrate their collective spirit.
Team Lolab Panthers Lifts Keran Mela Cricket Trophy
The sporting excitement continued with the much awaited Cricket Final, which was played between Sarhad Keran and Lolab Panthers. In a keenly contested final, Lolab Panthers emerged victorious, securing the Keran Mela 2026 Cricket Trophy.
The cricket final attracted a large gathering of spectators, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere across the Keran Bowl. Players from both teams displayed strong determination, competitive spirit and sportsmanship throughout the match.
The victory of Lolab Panthers added another memorable chapter to the sporting events of Keran Mela 2026, while the participation of teams from different areas highlighted the role of the Mela in bringing communities together through sports.
For Keran Mela 2026, Day 15 became particularly memorable as two major sporting events the 10 kilometre Run for Fun and the Cricket Final were held on the same day, creating an atmosphere of celebration, enthusiasm and community participation throughout the Keran Bowl.
The events also highlighted the broader spirit of Keran Mela 2026, which brings together sports, culture, youth participation and community engagement in one of Jammu and Kashmir’s remote border regions.
From the starting point at Kundian to the finish at the Rooh-e-Hind Flag Site, the day carried a simple and powerful message sport can connect communities, inspire young people and create new opportunities in the borderland.
Keran Mela 2026 continues to provide a vibrant platform for local talent, youth engagement, fitness and community participation, further strengthening the spirit of togetherness in the Keran Bowl. (JKNS)
