GR8 Sports India Private Limited, one of the most dynamic and promising sports startups in the country, has been conferred with the prestigious title of ‘Startup Maharathi in Gaming & Sports’ at the Startup Mahakumbh 2025.
The accolade, granted after a stringent multi-phase evaluation process, was officially announced during the recognition ceremony at the grand event. The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, personally presented the award to Fawzul Kabiir, co-founder of GR8 Sports, in the presence of leading figures from India’s vibrant startup ecosystem.
This recognition places GR8 Sports among the top innovators in the Indian sports sector and highlights its growing impact—especially through the manufacture of world-class Kashmir Willow cricket bats.
Over the years, GR8 Sports has earned a unique reputation, being the only ICC-certified bat brand from the Kashmir Valley, and has proudly showcased Indian sports craftsmanship on global platforms including international tournaments, expos, and trade fairs.
Expressing gratitude during the ceremony, Fawzul Kabiir remarked, “This recognition is not a result of a single day’s effort, but years of relentless dedication, innovation, and unwavering belief in our mission.”
Startup Mahakumbh 2025, a landmark event for the Indian startup ecosystem, brought together thousands of startups, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the nation. The event was curated by a consortium of major ecosystem enablers, led by FICCI, and supported by ASSOCHAM, NASSCOM, TiE, IVCA, and the Bootstrap Foundation.
The award further cements GR8 Sports’ position as a torchbearer in India’s sports manufacturing industry and a symbol of entrepreneurial excellence from the Kashmir region.
