Leh, Ladakh – August 4, 2024 – The 8th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2024, organized by the Ladakh Pencak Silat Association in collaboration with the Youth Services & Sports, UT of Ladakh , Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and the Indian Pencak Silat Federation, concluded successfully at the NDS Multipurpose Indoor Sports Stadium in Leh, Ladakh. The event witnessed participation of 454 athletes from across 18 States/UT of India, making it a landmark event in the Indian martial arts calendar. This was the first time that Ladakh hosts such kind of National level event in the UT since its foundation.
The opening ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Chief Guest, Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche. The Guests of Honour included Shri Tsering Angchuk, Deputy Chairman LAHDC Leh; Shri Mosis Kunzang, Director, Youth Services and Sports UT of Ladakh, Kishore Prakash Yewale, President of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation; and Tariq Ahmad Zargar, Secretary General Indian Pencak Silat Federation & other officers, and officials from the UT of Ladakh from different departments & Federation. The dignitaries lauded the efforts of the athletes and the organizers for promoting this traditional martial art form.
The competition saw a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship, culminating in Jammu & Kashmir clinching the Overall Championship title. Haryana secured the second position, while the host region Ladakh proudly took third place.
The closing ceremony was attended by Chief Guest Shri Vikram Singh Malik (IAS), Administrative Secretary Youth Services and Sports Ut of Ladakh, who commended the participants for their dedication and highlighted the importance of Pencak Silat in fostering discipline, physical fitness, and cultural exchange.
Pencak Silat, a traditional martial art form from Southeast Asia, is known for its fluid movements, strategic combat techniques, and deep philosophical underpinnings. It combines physical prowess with mental discipline, promoting overall well-being and cultural appreciation. The sport is not only about self-defense but also about building character and resilience among its practitioners.
The 8th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2024 has set a new benchmark for martial arts tournaments in India, showcasing the immense talent and potential of the nation’s athletes. The event has also reinforced the significance of Ladakh as a hub for sporting excellence, with its breathtaking landscape providing an inspiring backdrop for such prestigious competitions.
The Ladakh Pencak Silat Association, Youth services & sports, UT of Ladakh LAHDC, and the Indian Pencak Silat Federation extend their heartfelt gratitude to all participants, officials, and supporters who contributed to the event’s success. They look forward to continuing their efforts in promoting Pencak Silat and nurturing the next generation of martial arts champions.