Kashmir’s Shahid Hilal Wins Gold at Khelo India Beach Games 2026
Srinagar, Jan 10: Representing Kashmir with pride, Pencak Silat fighter Shahid Hilal emerged victorious by clinching the gold medal in the 60–65 kg weight category at the prestigious 2nd Khelo India Beach Games 2026. His outstanding performance at the national event held in the Union Territory of Diu has garnered widespread acclaim.
The Khelo India Beach Games 2026, a highly anticipated sporting extravaganza, are being meticulously organized by the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, with the technical supervision of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the concerned National Sports Federations.
Expressing his gratitude post-victory, Shahid Hilal attributed his success to the India Pencak Silat Federation for providing him with invaluable three months of international coaching under the expert guidance of Suhud Indratno. He also acknowledged the pivotal role played by India’s Chief Coach, Irfan Aziz, in honing his skills and preparing him meticulously for the Beach Games, ultimately leading to his gold medal triumph.
Reflecting on his experience at the national event, Shahid Hilal remarked, “Competing at the Khelo India Beach Games has been a memorable journey. The rapid growth of Pencak Silat in India is truly inspiring, and I am thrilled to witness numerous success stories emerging from this sport.”
Dedicating his remarkable achievement to his family, especially his parents, Shahid Hilal expressed, “My parents have been my pillars of strength throughout my journey. This gold medal is as much theirs as it is mine.”
Shahid Hilal’s triumph in the 60–65 kg category at the Khelo India Beach Games serves as a momentous milestone for Kashmir’s sporting community, shedding light on the escalating prominence of Pencak Silat as a competitive sport in India.
