GILGIT: Two winter sports festivals, one in Astore and another in the Hunza district of the Gilgit-Baltistan region concluded on a glitzy note on Sunday amid freezing temperatures.

Nail-biting contests and musical performances marked the culmination of the three-day event titled, “The Frozen Fairytale Winter Feast”, in Murtazabad, Hunza.

Both male and female teams from the Ghizer district secured victories in their respective final ice hockey matches.

A total of 10 male and female teams from Gilgit, Ghizer, Hunza and Nagar districts took part in ice hockey competitions. In the final contest, Ghizer defeated Gilgit 3-0 in the male category, while in the female category, they defeated Hunza by a margin of one goal.

Competitions in ice curling and ice skating were also part of the event. Locals braved the harsh weather to attend the event in thousands and enjoyed dance performances to the tunes of traditional music.

Stalls featuring local cuisine and handicrafts were set up by entrepreneurs to make the most of the event.

The closing ceremony of the event held at Murtazabad ice rink was attended by GB Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmed Mirza as the chief guest, alongside Special Assistant to the GB Chief Minister on Information Eiman Shah, commissioner Gilgit and Tourism Secretary Zamir Abbas.

Speaking on the occasion, GB Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmad Mirza said these initiatives will not only promote winter sports but also boost tourism in the scenic region.

Separately on Sunday, the Deosai Snow Festival concluded in the Chilum area of Astore district with a vibrant showcase of local talent.

The event was organised by the Pakistan Army to promote tourism in the snow-covered plains of Deosai and the culture of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The ceremony was attended by Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gillani as the chief guest along with officers of the district administration.

A large number of people from different areas of the district participated in this magnificent event.

Stalls showcasing various cultural items, handicrafts, traditional food and dry fruits were set up.

Competitions featuring traditional sports of the area, including tug-of-war, were organised for children and youth, along with musical performances of renowned artists.

Participants said the festival not only became a way of promoting the culture of the area but also served as a source of joy and entertainment for the locals.

Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2025