KASHMIR SHINES ON THE GLOBAL STAGE AS TABISH MUSHTAQ WINS GOLD AND FARHAN REYAZ CLAIMS SILVER AT THE 18TH WEKAF WORLD ARNIS CHAMPIONSHIP 2026

Kashmir’s sporting landscape continues to script inspiring success stories, proving that talent, determination and perseverance can take young athletes from the Valley to the highest international platforms. In yet another proud moment for India and Jammu & Kashmir, two promising athletes from the region delivered exceptional performances at the 18th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) World Arnis Championship 2026, bringing home a Gold and a Silver medal. Their remarkable achievements have not only added to India’s medal tally but have also highlighted Kashmir’s growing presence in the world of martial arts.

Held from 01 to 04 August 2026 at the Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, the championship witnessed participation from elite martial artists representing several countries. Competing against some of the world’s finest athletes, Ms. Tabish Mushtaq from Rangrath, Srinagar emerged as a Gold Medallist, while Farhan Reyaz from Pampore in Pulwama district secured the Silver Medal, making the entire nation proud.

For many, Arnis may be an unfamiliar sport but it is one of the world’s most respected traditional martial arts. Also known as Eskrima or Kali, Arnis originated in the Philippines and combines weapon-based combat, stick fighting, empty-hand techniques and self-defence skills. It demands exceptional speed, precision, discipline, agility and mental focus. The World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) serves as the international governing body for the sport and organises the prestigious World Arnis Championship, bringing together top competitors from across the globe. Winning a medal at this championship is considered a significant accomplishment, reflecting an athlete’s technical excellence and years of dedicated training.

Among the brightest stars of this year’s championship was Ms. Tabish Mushtaq, a resident of Rangrath, Old Airport Road, Srinagar. Displaying extraordinary composure, technical brilliance and fighting spirit throughout the competition, she earned the coveted Gold Medal, proudly raising the Indian Tricolour and bringing immense pride to her home region of Kashmir. Her victory is a testament to the countless hours of hard work, discipline and unwavering commitment that define every successful athlete. More importantly, it sends a powerful message that young women from Kashmir are steadily breaking barriers and making their mark on the international sporting stage.

Equally commendable was the performance of Farhan Reyaz from Saffron Town, Pampore who secured the Silver Medal after an impressive campaign. His achievement reflects exceptional determination and competitive spirit while reinforcing the growing strength of martial arts talent emerging from South Kashmir. Competing against international opponents and finishing among the world’s best is no small feat and Farhan’s success stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the region.

The achievements of Tabish Mushtaq and Farhan Reyaz represent far more than individual victories. They reflect the emergence of a confident generation of Kashmiri youth who are embracing sports as a pathway to excellence, discipline and international recognition. Across Jammu & Kashmir, increasing participation in diverse sporting disciplines is creating new opportunities for talented youngsters to showcase their abilities beyond regional and national boundaries. Every international medal strengthens the belief that dedication, proper training and unwavering determination can transform dreams into reality.

Their success also serves as a reminder that excellence is not defined by geography but by commitment and perseverance. From the streets of Rangrath to the saffron fields of Pampore, these athletes have demonstrated that with courage, resilience and relentless effort, even the biggest global stages are within reach. Their journey is an inspiration for countless young boys and girls who aspire to wear the Indian colours and represent the nation with pride.

As Kashmir continues to produce talented athletes across various sports, victories like these strengthen the region’s reputation as a hub of emerging sporting excellence. The Gold won by Ms. Tabish Mushtaq and the Silver secured by Farhan Reyaz at the 18th WEKAF World Arnis Championship 2026 are milestones that deserve celebration. Their remarkable performances have not only brought honour to Jammu & Kashmir but have also inspired an entire generation to believe that determination, discipline and hard work can turn aspirations into extraordinary achievements. Their success is a shining example that the future of Kashmiri sports is brighter than ever.