(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)
If Jammu City presently boasts of a high quality Astroturf laden Hockey Stadium, the credit for that definitely goes to the relentless efforts of Krishan Kumar Hakhu, the man who was wedded to the cause of Sports in Jammu and Kashmir for decades together.
Popularly known as K K Hakhu, this son of the soil was incredibly passionate about the promotion of Sports in Jammu and Kashmir until his last breath. His dedication reflected the recognition of his significant role in promoting and nurturing sports in the erstwhile State.
K K Hakhu’s commitment to sports in Kashmir, particularly through his leadership of the Kashmir Wanderers Hockey Club since 1945, evidently left a lasting impact on the region’s sporting community.
When Hakhu Defeated Politicians!
It is heartening to know that despite initial suggestions and manoeuvring to name Jammu’s Hockey stadium after some politicians, the decision to honor Hakhu’s contributions ultimately prevailed and K.K Hakhu Sports Stadium, opposite Jammu University Campus was named after him.
Hakhu was originally from Sathu Barbarshah, Srinagar, Kashmir but had settled down at Exchange Road, Jammu where he breathed his last on January 14, 1997.
A recipient of so many awards, including J&K Governor’s Highest Sports Medal and All India Surjit Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament Society Award, Hakhu had the honour to start Winter All India Indira Gold Cup Hockey tournament in Jammu in 1990 which had enabled sports lovers to watch national and international hockey players in action.
Hakhu was, however, reportedly denied Padam Shree, despite his name having been recommended by the then State Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah for his relentless service to sports.
Besides Indira Gold Cup Hockey Tournament, Hakhu was a great organiser of Football matches also both in Kashmir and Jammu divisions and actively taking part in such matches. Organizing tournaments like the Indira Gold Cup Hockey demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering sportsmanship and athletic talent in the region.
Finally Sports prevailed upon Politics and great lover of Sports in earstwhile J & K state was honored by naming jammu Hockey Stadium as K K Hakhu Hockey Stadium Janmu.