Pampore: The picturesque landscapes of Pampore in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district witnessed a thrilling climax as the curtains fell on the much-anticipated interdistrict Pigeon Racing Tournament. Orchestrated by the dynamic Khrew Androosa Pigeon Association, this event marked a celebration of avian athleticism and revived a once-cherished tradition.
Approximately 15 competing pigeon teams showcased their mettle, with a shared goal of seizing supremacy in the skies. Against the backdrop of Pampore’s serene expanse, the event emerged as a testament to both the passion for pigeon racing and the determination of those who keep its legacy alive. The tournament’s concluding grand ceremony stood as a tribute to the remarkable achievements of the champions and the runner-ups.
The honour of top honours was bestowed upon Gulzar Ahmad’s team of pigeons hailing from Pampore, a triumphant flight that achieved the highest flight hours. Imtiyaz Ahmad’s pigeon ensemble from Dadsara Tral soared valiantly to secure the commendable runner-up position. In recognition of their unwavering dedication and successful partnership with their avian competitors,
Gulzar, the triumphant owner, received a generous cash reward of Rs 35,000. Imtiyaz, the runner-up, was presented with Rs 10,000 as an acknowledgement of his team’s spirited efforts.
Beyond the collective accomplishments of the competing teams, the spotlight shone brightly on individual pigeons who exhibited extraordinary prowess.
A highlight that etched itself into Pulwama’s pigeon racing annals was the recognition bestowed upon Javaid Ahmad Deva’s pigeon, which earned the esteemed title of “Bahadur Kabotar.” This accolade celebrated the pigeon’s exceptional individual flight hours, an embodiment of the spirit of pigeon racing.
Notably, Mohsin Ahmad, a dedicated Kabotar Baaz, revealed that Javaid’s remarkable pigeon defied limits by soaring through the skies for an unprecedented 14 hours and 10 minutes. This astounding achievement set an unparalleled milestone within the realm of Pulwama’s pigeon racing, underscoring the remarkable capabilities of these feathered athletes.
The driving force behind this revival of a cherished tradition were the organizers: Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Nazir Ahmad, Shabir Ahmad Bhat, and Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. Their dedication not only breathed new life into pigeon racing.
The tournament’s format allowed each team to release approximately 8 pigeons into the sky for each race. Provisions for substitutes were made to address unforeseen challenges such as injuries caused by falcons or incomplete flights. On-field umpires meticulously recorded the cumulative flight time of all pigeons in each team, forming the foundation for determining the ultimate champion.
Once a popular pastime, pigeon rearing and racing have found a new breath of life through events like these. In an era marked by modern pursuits, this tournament harks back to a time-honoured tradition, reminding all of the timeless allure of the skies and the stories they hold.

BILAL HABIB