The Kashmir Marathon held in Srinagar this Sunday was more than a sporting event — it was a statement of courage, unity, and defiance. Just months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that rattled the Valley’s fragile tourism and economy, hundreds of runners from across India and abroad came together to reclaim Kashmir’s spirit of normalcy and resilience. In a place often defined by headlines of conflict, the sight of global athletes running shoulder to shoulder with local youth through Srinagar’s autumn-hued streets carried a message louder than any political slogan — that life and hope will not be held hostage by fear. The marathon, attended by both professionals and amateurs, was a rare confluence of sport, solidarity, and symbolism. It showcased Kashmir’s natural beauty and its people’s undiminished desire to move forward despite repeated setbacks. The event’s timing was crucial. The tourism sector, the backbone of the Valley’s economy, has been gasping for recovery after the Pahalgam attack that struck at the heart of Kashmir’s image as a peaceful destination. By bringing together athletes and visitors from multiple countries, the marathon sent a powerful signal: the world still believes in Kashmir’s promise. Every footstep on that 21-km route echoed the Valley’s determination to rebuild what terror tried to destroy. Equally commendable was the administration’s and local organizers’ seamless coordination, ensuring safety without dampening the spirit of festivity. The participation of women runners, senior citizens, and school students added depth to the event’s inclusive message. For a generation that has grown up amid curfews and checkpoints, such gatherings are a breath of freedom — a chance to be seen not as victims of turmoil, but as agents of change. Kashmir has long needed narratives that go beyond its pain. Sport, when used as a tool for healing, has the power to unify, to inspire, and to rebuild confidence among its people. The Kashmir Marathon has proven that peace-building does not always begin in political chambers; sometimes, it begins on the road — with running shoes, determination, and a shared dream. As the dust settles and medals are handed out, what will linger is not just the race but the resilience it celebrated. In defying terror through sport, Kashmir has taken another stride toward reclaiming its normalcy — one mile, one runner, one heartbeat at a time.