Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty, who was in Kashmir on Sunday for the Kashmir Marathon 2.0, expressed his joy and admiration over the overwhelming participation in the event, calling it a celebration of unity and peace.
Speaking to reporters as Per KNS, Shetty said, “People are running for Kashmir and for India. This is such a beautiful thing, and it is amazing to see the enthusiasm with which people of all ages are running. I am very happy to be here for the second edition, and every year I will try my best to come again.”
When asked about the significance of the event for tourism following the Baisaran incident, Shetty said he could sense the positive change in the Valley’s atmosphere. “I arrived yesterday; we went to Dal Lake and several other places. It felt like that atmosphere which had gone quiet is coming back again. I see this winter being a very beautiful winter for Kashmir,” he said.
On the growing participation of athletes, Shetty remarked, “100% I am sure more athletes will join in the coming years. Winter is coming, and with winter events happening in February, a lot more is in store. You have cricket also coming up, where international players like Chris Gayle and others will be here and playing.
So, it means we are back we are back in a big way.”
Speaking about Bollywood’s connection with the Valley, he said, “I have some producer friends here who want to do more films in Kashmir, and there is a ray of hope with films being made this year. We all need to do our bit — not just me or anyone else, but all of us as citizens of this country — because finally, this is our most beautiful place on Earth.”
Appreciating the spirit of the participants, Shetty noted, “There are more than 100 international athletes and people from all over. People of all ages are running I saw someone above 60 years old. I am myself 65-plus, so I cannot call them old, I will call them young — but they were running with so much enthusiasm. I hope, just like last year when tourism was at its peak and there was 90% occupancy in Srinagar, this winter we will see that again.”
Concluding with a heartfelt appeal, Shetty said, “I pray, wish, and request people to come forward and make this beautiful place their very own. Come and experience Kashmir.”(KNS)
