Srinagar witnessed an unexpected musical interlude on Friday as former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah captivated the audience at a sporting event by performing the iconic Lata Mangeshkar song, “Lag Ja Gale.” The impromptu performance occurred during the concluding ceremony of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) tournament, held at the scenic Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar.
As a local band was providing musical entertainment, the 88-year-old Abdullah, who also serves as the president of the National Conference (NC), requested the microphone. He then proceeded to sing the popular ballad from the 1964 film “Woh Kaun Thi,” a rendition that was met with enthusiastic applause from the assembled crowd. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Abdullah not only participated in the musical segment but also appeared to thoroughly enjoy the band’s performance.
Following the musical interlude, Abdullah addressed the attendees during the prize distribution ceremony, where he extended his commendations to the participating golfers for their performance. He acknowledged their efforts, stating, “I want to applaud whatever you people have done. It is a yeoman’s service to this game.” The former Union minister further articulated his vision for Indian sports, emphasizing the nation’s potential to achieve greater success on the international stage.
Abdullah expressed his belief that the time has arrived for India to secure medals in prestigious global competitions such as the Olympics, the Asian Games, and the Commonwealth Games. He remarked, “The time has come when we must also rise to that occasion. Our country can produce such golfers.” He specifically highlighted the young talent showcased at the event, noting the necessity for their continued development and the emergence of new talent. “But this young talent has to grow, and other talent has to come up. We have to back it,” he added, underscoring the importance of support for aspiring athletes.
In his address, Abdullah also offered counsel to the youth, urging them to abstain from alcohol. He stressed the importance of hard work and dedication for national progress, stating, “If we have to take the country to the heights, we have to work hard.” He cautioned against complacency after achieving success, emphasizing the need for continuous practice. “It is not that after winning one tournament, you just sit down, but you practice. Unless you practice for more than 14 hours, you will never become a champion that the world recognizes. If you want to become a champion, then you have to give up other things and concentrate on this,” he advised, outlining the rigorous commitment required to reach elite levels in any sport.
Furthermore, Abdullah indicated that the Jammu and Kashmir government is receptive to suggestions aimed at enhancing the facilities at the Royal Springs Golf Course and promoting the sport within the Union territory. This commitment suggests a proactive approach by the local administration to foster sporting development and potentially identify and nurture future golfing talent from the region. The event, therefore, served not only as a sporting competition but also as a platform for motivational discourse and a demonstration of the vibrant cultural and sporting landscape of Srinagar.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.