A 10-day marathon polo tournament, held to celebrate Gilgit-Baltistan’s Independence Day, attracted thousands of spectators to the breathtaking mountainous region of northern Pakistan. The event concluded on Thursday at the Wahab Shaheed Polo Ground in Gilgit, showcasing the region’s rich polo heritage and community spirit.
Seventeen teams from across Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) competed in the high-energy matches, organized by the Pakistan Army and local authorities. Major General Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gillani, Commander of Force Command Northern Areas, attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest. The tournament, dubbed the “Jashan Azadi Polo Tournament,” marked the region’s independence from Dogra Raj on November 1, 1947.
A Game of Tradition and Prestige
Gilgit-Baltistan is known as the birthplace of polo, often referred to as the “Game of Kings.” Polo here is played in its purest form—without rules and at an exhilarating pace. The famous inscription from Gilgit, “Let other people play at other things, the King of Games is still the Game of Kings,” highlights the sport’s historical significance in the region.
The final matches crowned the Chilas team as winners in the civilian category, while the NLI (Northern Light Infantry) teams triumphed in the departmental category.
Polo as a Unifier
According to Faizullah Faraq, spokesperson for the G-B government, the tournament fostered social harmony and attracted thousands of spectators daily.
“Polo is the national game of Gilgit-Baltistan, and such events bring unity and peace within the community,” Faraq stated.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere were traditional dance performances by locals, further showcasing the region’s cultural richness.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Afrad Gul, captain of the winning Chilas team, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support. “I have been playing polo for 15 years, and my son was also part of my team,” Gul shared. “We are committed to preserving and promoting this regional game for future generations.”
Beyond the Polo Field
Gilgit-Baltistan, a region administered by Pakistan, holds strategic importance as the gateway to the $65 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Its rugged landscapes, which border China and Afghanistan, serve as a stunning backdrop for events like this tournament.
The region is also home to the world’s highest polo ground, located in Shandur at an altitude of over 12,000 feet, where an annual polo festival draws local and international audiences.
The success of the Jashan Azadi Polo Tournament underscores the importance of cultural and sporting events in promoting peace, unity, and economic growth in the region.
