Nazim Ali Manhas
Mendhar:TDD, The Mendhar Sports Festival 2024 concluded with a spectacular Grand Finale on 25 November 2024, organized by Mendhar Battalion under the Bhimber Gali Brigade and Ace of Spades Divison. This awe-inspiring event celebrated the vibrant spirit of the people from remote villages near the Line of Control (LOC) in Mendhar, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and minds. Enthusiastic crowds from all walks of life gathered to witness this grand occasion.
The Grand Finale was a dazzling showcase of talent and culture, featuring a vibrant fusion of cultural performances, an enthralling Army Dog Show, and the felicitation of winning teams and achievers from the Mendhar-Poonch region who have carved a niche for themselves and their community. A key highlight was the active participation of various government and non-government organizations, which set up informative booths to educate and showcase diverse employment and empowerment opportunities for the youth. Adding to the community spirit, an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Meet was also organized, fostering camaraderie and strengthening bonds between the Army and the local population.
The presence of esteemed military and civil dignitaries elevated the event’s grandeur.
GOC 25 Infantry Division Maj Gen Kaushik Mukherjee Chief Guest honored young talents for their exceptional performances in various competitions, inspiring them to strive for excellence and aim higher.
The festival, which spanned 18 days, showcased an impressive array of sports events, igniting the competitive spirit among Mendhar’s youth. Competitions such as Volleyball (Boys & Girls), Kho-Kho (Boys & Girls), Kabaddi (Boys), and Stone Lifting (Boys) drew participation from over 40 teams. These events not only highlighted the region’s immense athletic potential but also promoted a culture of health, fitness, and teamwork.
A major milestone of the festival was the first-ever Mendhar Mini Marathon in Poonch District, held on 17 November 2024. This groundbreaking event saw over 300 participants enthusiastically take part, marking a historic moment for the region. Certificates and Medals of Participation were awarded to all participants, while top performers were recognized with Excellence Medals for their outstanding efforts. The marathon, flagged off by the Brigade Commander Bimbhar Gali Brigade, symbolized the community’s unwavering passion for fitness and resilience.
The Mendhar Festival 2024 was much more than a celebration of sports and culture—it was a platform for empowering youth, strengthening community bonds, and inspiring dreams. It bridged divides and reinforced the message of hope, normalcy, and progress, offering a vision of a brighter future for the Mendhar region.
This landmark event, meticulously organized by the Bhimber Gali Brigade, stands as a testament to the resilience and potential of the Mendhar community, paving the way for greater unity, growth, and achievement in the years to come.TDD
