After devastating floods in Kashmir in 2014 disrupted countless lives, two friends sparked hope and community spirit by distributing footballs to local youth. What started as a simple act of kindness transformed into Real Kashmir FC, the first football club from the Valley to compete in India's I-League.
- Real Kashmir FC founded after 2014 floods
- Financial risks taken to sustain the club
- First Kashmiri team promoted to I-League
What happened
In September 2014, catastrophic floods submerged thousands of villages in Kashmir, displacing tens of thousands and destroying infrastructure essential to daily life. The disruption left many young people without safe places to play or socialize, threatening their sense of normalcy and hope during a difficult recovery period. Recognizing this urgent need, journalist Shamim Meraj and entrepreneur Sandeep Chattoo took the initiative to provide footballs to children in the flood-affected neighborhoods.
This simple act of distributing 100 footballs quickly sparked a larger dream: to build a football club that could give Kashmir's youth purpose and a positive identity beyond the conflict often associated with the region. Despite financial hurdles and the challenge of juggling daily jobs, the founders officially launched Real Kashmir FC in March 2016, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Why it feels good
Real Kashmir FC’s rise is a testament to resilience and community spirit. Faced with funding difficulties, Shamim mortgaged his wife's jewellery to keep the club running, showing deep personal commitment. Friendships and local support helped fuel a shared dream, transforming the club from a modest start into a symbol of hope and pride for Kashmir.
The team’s achievements, particularly their unbeaten run in the 2017–18 I-League Second Division and historic promotion to India's I-League, provide a fresh narrative for the region. This progress not only earns national sports recognition but also uplifts local youth by inspiring them through stories of success against the odds.
What to enjoy or watch next
Today, Real Kashmir FC supports multiple teams across age groups, from seniors to children as young as five, alongside ongoing training programs. Their partnership with Adidas and inclusion in international documentaries have further elevated the club’s status, bringing global attention to Kashmiri talent and determination.
Fans and supporters can follow the club’s matches in the I-League as they continue to challenge established teams and expand football’s reach in the region. Real Kashmir FC’s story encourages watching grassroots sports in conflict-affected areas, highlighting the power of sport to unite communities and nurture the next generation of players.