Jammu Kashmir to Host First-Ever International Dangal Championship Today | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir will host its first-ever International Indian Style Wrestling (Dangal) championship and the Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title 2025 at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu today.

The mega sporting event will see participation of more than 100 national and international Dangal wrestlers, who will compete for the prestigious Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir title. The championship will also feature open-category bouts involving prominent wrestlers from India and abroad.

Professional wrestlers from India, Iran and several other countries are taking part, making it one of the largest wrestling events ever organised in the Union Territory. The event aims to revive and showcase Jammu and Kashmir’s rich Dangal heritage while providing an international platform to the athletes.

The newly instituted Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir title is open to wrestlers weighing above 85 kg. The winner will receive a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with traditional honours, including the Gurj (Gadda) and Patta. The runner-up will be awarded Rs 30,000, while the third and fourth position holders will receive Rs 20,000 and Rs 15,000 respectively.

Organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, the championship seeks to promote unity, strength, fitness and cultural pride through the traditional sport of wrestling. Officials said the International Dangal is also expected to boost sports tourism in the Union Territory.

With international participation, the event is likely to attract large crowds, encourage cultural exchange and inspire youth towards fitness and sportsmanship. The championship begins at 12 noon and entry for spectators is free.