September 6 marked the 27th anniversary of the founding of the International Kurash Association (IKA). This date is celebrated annually as World Kurash Day in over 100 countries worldwide. This year, the capital of Tajikistan, Dushanbe, became the main center of the celebrations.
In the first half of the day, the Shohambari Sports Complex hosted the historic Tajikistan Grand Prix tournament, in which the four strongest national teams participated. The competition featured teams named after champions who left a bright mark in the history of Tajik Kurash: Bahodir Khalimov, Komronshok Ustopiriyon, Dadakhon Kurbonaliev, and Rustam Bakiev. Among them were Asian and world champions in Kurash, sambo, and judo.
The competition was a real treat for sports fans. Spectacular techniques and dynamic Kurash gave the competition a special solemnity. In the final, in the decisive match between the team of Bahodir Khalimov and the team of Komronshok Ustopiriyon, Khalimov’s team won a well-deserved victory. National team stars such as Navruz Karimzod and Khaknazar Nazarov made a significant contribution to this victory. The winners and runners-up were awarded medals, certificates, and cash prizes.
At the official opening ceremony, the President of the International Kurash Association, Haider Farman, and the President of the Kurash Federation of Tajikistan, Abdumalik Orifov, congratulated all participants and thanked the federation for its efforts in organizing World Kurash Day at such a high level. After that, Haider Farman officially declared World Kurash Day and the Grand Prix competition open.
In the afternoon, a gala evening was held at the Anzur restaurant in the capital. The event was attended by leaders of the International Kurash Association, representatives of the Kurash Federation of Tajikistan, the National Olympic Committee, the Ministry of Sport, athletes, coaches, and representatives of the World Kurash Family.
Haider Farman opened the ceremony and warmly welcomed everyone. He noted that Kurash is becoming one of the important spiritual values of human life, based on honesty, courage, and nobility. He also expressed his gratitude to the Kurash Federation of Tajikistan for the initiative to hold the holiday.
IKA Vice President Sherzodkhon Kudratkhuja then spoke, praising the hospitality and nobility of the Tajik people. He noted that Kurash is increasingly strengthening its position in world sport and will undoubtedly become part of the Olympic family in the future.
Tajik artists performed songs and national dances at the event, creating a festive atmosphere. Haider Farman presented commemorative gifts from the International Kurash Association to representatives of the federation and selfless members of the Kurash family who contributed to the organizational work.
The events dedicated to World Kurash Day, held in Dushanbe, became an unforgettable experience for the participants.
