NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir delivered an impressive performance in the Kalarippayattu discipline at the 69th National School Games 2025–26, securing eight medals along with two second runner-up trophies in the U/19 Boys and Girls categories.
The event, held at Thyagraj Stadium on April 16 and 17, saw a 16-member contingent from J&K compete with distinction, winning four silver and four bronze medals.
The silver medalists included Manvi Sharma, Vasundhara Chib, Pratham Vaid, and Chirag Puri, while bronze medals were bagged by Angel Gupta, Nitin Kumar, Danish Sharma, and Surya Dev Singh Manhas.
Adding to the overall performance, Anandika and Tejasvi secured fifth positions, while Aaidah Nabi finished seventh, reflecting the depth of talent in the team.
The contingent was guided by coaches Shabir Ahmed Lone and Sarita Devi, along with team manager Mohd. Hussain. Danish Sharma, Technical Official (SGFI) and Secretary General of the Kalarippayattu Association of Jammu and Kashmir, also played a key role in motivating the athletes.
The association appreciated the support of the Department of Youth Services and Sports Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Director General Anuradha Gupta and Deputy Director Megha Baogia, for their encouragement.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for J&K in promoting traditional martial arts and nurturing young sporting talent across the Union Territory.
