Srinagar, Nov 14: A traditional women’s boat race was organised on Dal Lake by the District Administration Srinagar in collaboration with the Water Sports Association and the Department of Lakes and Waterways, promoting women’s empowerment and encouraging their participation in sports.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation, with around 149 boats carrying women from Dal Lake communities taking part in the traditional competition. The participants showcased their rowing skills, confidence and sporting spirit, turning the event into a vibrant celebration of Kashmir’s rich water culture.
The initiative aimed to provide local women, particularly those living around Dal Lake, an opportunity to display their talent and engage in sporting activities. It also highlighted the role of sports in promoting confidence, community participation and women's empowerment.
Vice Chairman of the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority, Khursheed Ahmad Shah, said it was the second edition of the women's boat race and that such events would continue in the future.
"We saw a lot of enthusiasm. Young girls came forward and participated, making the event a great success. Our basic objective is to promote tourism," he said.
Water sports coach Bilkes Mir said the event encouraged women who had never participated in a boat race before to step out of their homes and showcase their abilities.
"These girls had never taken part in a boat race until today. It was a very good race. I sincerely thank the District Administration, especially the Deputy Commissioner, for supporting the event. I want this race to become an annual feature and reach every corner of India," she said.
One of the participants said the competitors had worked hard despite the challenging nature of the race, adding that the experience was both demanding and enjoyable.
Apart from promoting women's participation in sports, the event also sought to preserve Kashmir's traditional heritage, with boats remaining an integral part of life and livelihoods around Dal Lake for generations.
The participation of nearly 150 boats underscored the growing enthusiasm among local women and added a new dimension to the promotion of tourism and traditional water sports in Srinagar.