How the 55-year-old Chief Minister is setting the pace for fitness, resilience, and adventure tourism
Srinagar: In the crisp early morning air of Srinagar, as the first rays of the sun kissed the serene Dal Lake, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was once again at the starting line—this time for the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025. But Abdullah, a public figure often seen in the political arena, is no ordinary politician when it comes to fitness. At 55, he has emerged as a symbol of endurance, discipline, and the sheer joy of running.
From Political Leader to Fitness Icon
For Omar Abdullah, fitness is not a hobby—it is a way of life. Known for his daily running routines, skiing expeditions in the winter, and rigorous training, Abdullah has turned personal discipline into public inspiration.
“You don’t need drugs to feel good or beat stress,” he often shares, urging the people of Jammu and Kashmir to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle.
This dedication was on full display during the Kashmir Marathon 2025, where Abdullah ran the 21-kilometre half marathon, finishing in an impressive 1 hour, 51 minutes, and 55 seconds. This was a remarkable improvement over his performance in the 2024 Kashmir Marathon, where he had completed the same distance in 2 hours and 6 minutes. Improving more than 14 minutes within a year at the age of 55 is nothing short of extraordinary—a testament to consistent training, resilience, and unwavering determination.
A Marathon Through the Heart of Kashmir
The Kashmir Marathon, now in its second year, has quickly become one of India’s premier sporting events. Over 1,100 runners from 27 states and union territories, along with 77 international participants from 11 countries, took part this year, transforming Srinagar’s streets into a vibrant tapestry of sport, culture, and camaraderie. The race showcased the city’s breathtaking landscapes, from the scenic Boulevard Road to the iconic Dal Lake, all while highlighting Kashmir’s potential as a global destination for sports and adventure tourism.
Abdullah’s presence was more than ceremonial. By running alongside elite athletes and amateurs alike, he exemplified the marathon’s spirit of resilience and inclusivity. Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, who flagged off the event, captured the sentiment perfectly: “People are running for Kashmir and for India. It’s beautiful to witness the excitement among people of all ages.”
Personal Triumph Meets Public Inspiration
Abdullah’s commitment to fitness extends beyond personal achievement. Each run, each kilometer, is a message to the youth and citizens of the region: health is wealth, and perseverance pays off. Sharing his experience on social media, he reflected, “I didn’t set a personal best last year, but I improved my effort this year. Running past my home with family and fellow runners cheering me on was the best part.”
This ethos was evident not just in Kashmir. Abdullah recently participated in the Delhi Half Marathon 2025, achieving a personal best finishing time of 1 hour, 53 minutes, and 35 seconds, maintaining a pace of 5:24 minutes per kilometre. His steady progress, year after year, shows that age is no barrier to improvement or excellence.
More Than a Marathon
For Omar Abdullah, marathons are not just races—they are a medium to promote wellness, community, and a positive image of Kashmir to the world. By blending athleticism with public engagement, he has become the face of a movement that encourages a drug-free, active lifestyle and positions Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for international sporting events.
The Road Ahead
With consistent training, an unyielding spirit, and a dedication to both personal and public wellness, Omar Abdullah is setting benchmarks that extend far beyond politics. His remarkable improvement in the half marathon, coupled with his daily fitness routines and winter skiing, positions him not just as a political leader but as Kashmir’s ambassador of health, fitness, and resilience.
At 55, cutting more than 14 minutes off a half-marathon timing is extraordinary; for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, it is inspiring. As Abdullah continues to lace up his running shoes, the message is clear: every step, every run, and every effort counts—not just for personal triumph, but for the well-being and pride of a community.
Omar Abdullah is proof that passion, discipline, and perseverance have no age limit—and that sometimes, a run can change more than just the runner.
“You don’t need drugs to feel good or beat stress. A good run is enough to clear the cobwebs and create natural euphoria.” — Omar Abdullah
“Every run is a chance to inspire and promote a drug-free, active lifestyle.” — Omar Abdullah
“Improving 14 minutes in a half marathon at 55 is extraordinary—it shows the power of determination.” — Magazine Feature Commentator
1. Marathon Milestones:
Year Event Distance Timing Average Pace
2024 Kashmir Half Marathon 21 km 2:06:00 5:58 min/km
2025 Kashmir Half Marathon 21 km 1:51:55 5:19 min/km
2025 Delhi Half Marathon 21 km 1:53:35 5:24 min/km
