J&K Kalarippayattu team impresses at Khelo India National League

J&K Kalarippayattu team posing with dignitaries.
J&K Kalarippayattu team posing with dignitaries.

Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 22: The Jammu & Kashmir Kalarippayattu team put up an encouraging performance at the Khelo India National Kalarippayattu League 2025–26, held at the Indoor Sports Complex, LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The national-level event was organized by the Sports Authority of India in association with the Indian Kalarippayattu Federation and witnessed participation from about 17 States and Union Territories.
An eight-member J&K contingent represented the Union Territory with distinction, showcasing discipline and technical skill. The team was accompanied by Danish Sharma, General Secretary and Technical Chairman of the Kalarippayattu Association of J&K.
Adarishta Manhas and Anandika performed impressively in the Long Staff Fight and Sword & Shield events, while Manvi Sharma and Vasundhara Chib excelled across multiple categories. Notable performances were also delivered by Himanshu Barwalla, Ankush Thakur, Vinay Kumar and Naman Wazir. Overall, the team’s participation reflected the growing standard and development of Kalarippayattu in Jammu & Kashmir at the national level.