Srinagar: Ahead of the historic Khyber Run for ShahreKhaas 2026, Jammu & Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Wednesday unveiled the customised jersey for the upcoming 10-kilometre heritage run at SAMCI, Rajbagh.
The much-awaited run, scheduled to be held on May 17 in Srinagar’s old city, marks the revival of the iconic Run for ShahreKhaas after nearly a decade. Organised by Fucan Sports in collaboration with KSW, the event has already received an overwhelming response from athletes across Jammu & Kashmir, with registrations closing within just 48 hours of opening.
Around 150 professional athletes from different parts of Kashmir are expected to participate in the event. MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, an avid runner himself, will also take part in the run alongside the athletes.
The 10-kilometre route will commence from Badamwari Gate and pass through several historic landmarks of downtown Srinagar, including Kathidarwaza, Chattipadshahi, Rainawari, Khanyar, Nowpora, Khayam, Munawarabad, Baba Dawood Khaki Bridge, Baba Demb, Fateh Kadal, Khankah, New Zaina Kadal, Old Zaina Kadal, Budshah Tomb, Saraf Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Malaratta, Nowhatta, Jamia Masjid and Gojwara, before culminating at Islamia College Campus, Hawal.
All participants will receive customised finisher medals, T-shirts and participation certificates.
The event is supported by NITians Career Institute, Paristaan, Adlife and Media Line, while Khyber is the title sponsor.
Speaking on the occasion, Tanvir Sadiq termed it a privilege to be associated once again with the event that he had flagged off nearly ten years ago.
“The USP of this run is that it highlights the rich heritage of Srinagar’s old city while promoting a healthy lifestyle. The route starts in my constituency and concludes back in my constituency after covering almost all the historic areas of downtown Srinagar. Last time I flagged off the event, and this time I will personally run alongside the athletes,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of fitness in combating drug abuse, Tanvir said that awareness against the drug menace should be a continuous effort.
“Events like these, where people lead by example, are the perfect way to encourage youth towards fitness and help them stay away from drugs,” he added.
Recalling the legacy of the event, he said:
“Run for ShahreKhaas was a regular feature in Srinagar’s old city until 2015, and we are proud to revive it. Our aim is to showcase the rich heritage of the old city while promoting fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Given the tremendous response this year, we plan to make future editions bigger with more categories and wider participation.”
Sports Minister Satish Sharma lauded the organisers for holding such a significant sporting event in the heart of Srinagar’s old city.
“It is encouraging to see sports activities being organised in downtown Srinagar. I will definitely join the participants and support this initiative. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, we are working to strengthen sports culture in Jammu & Kashmir by leading through participation and example,” he said.
He added that increasing participation in fitness and sports activities is helping guide youth towards healthier lifestyles and away from drug abuse.
Among those present on the occasion were J&K SnowShoe Association President Tariq Ghani, General Secretary Dr Altaf-ur-Rehman, Organising Secretary Reyaz Wani, and noted athletes Mushtaq Bhat, Gulzar Khan, Hamid, Suhail and Zahid Kota.
The revival of the Khyber Run for ShahreKhaas is being seen as a major initiative blending sports, fitness and cultural heritage while bringing renewed attention to the historic core of Srinagar.
