Baramulla, Aug 10: In a remarkable achievement, 10,000 young women from Baramulla set a world record with the largest Kashmiri Folk Dance ever performed, during the ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ cultural festival. The event, held at Prof. Showkat Ali Indoor Stadium, was organized by the Dagger Division of Chinar Corps in collaboration with the Baramulla District Administration and the Indrani Balan Foundation, as part of the 78th Independence Day celebrations.
The festival featured a range of cultural activities including traditional dances, music, and calligraphy. The Rouf dance performance was the highlight, earning the world record.
Participant feedback was enthusiastic: “After a month of rehearsals, it feels incredible to achieve this. We are proud to be part of this world record.”
The event was overseen by Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa, with support from senior officials of the J&K Cultural Department, Police, and NGOs. Chief guest Lt. Gen. Rajiv Ghai, Corps Commander of Chinar Corps, was joined by Maj. Gen. Rajesh Sethi, GOC of Dagger Division, and Brigadier Rajat Bhatt, Baramulla Brigade Commander.
The Indrani Balan Foundation, led by Punit and Janhavi Balan, played a crucial role in supporting the initiative, demonstrating effective collaboration between civil, military, and industrial sectors.
The Universal Records Forum (URF), an ISO 9001:2015 certified organization, adjudicated the event and ensured it met Guinness records standards.
Local talent was showcased as well, including 13-year-old Rubab prodigy Ishfaq Hamid Bhatt, Pradhan Mantri Bal Puraskar 2024 awardee, and Naseer Ahmed Mir, a Santoor player honored with a gold medal by the President of India.
The festival also featured calligraphy by Shafi Mir and performances by the “Strings of Baramulla” band from the Chinar YUVA Centre. Popular Radio Baramulla RJs RJ Harleen and RJ Sajid hosted the event, highlighting the energy and commitment of the youth.
