Real Kashmir relish homecoming in Srinagar by beating champions Chennai City

On Thursday, Real Kashmir defeated reigning I-League champions Chennai City at TRC Turf Ground 2-1, drawing several thousand in the stands. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Braving winter chill, the Valley witnessed its first major sporting event in Srinagar since the revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir back on August 5. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Unlike past, however, the attendance was less, where only 5000/6000 seats were occupied out of the total 13000 capacity. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Their previous home game against Gokulam Kerala, which was to be played on December 12, had to be rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Team officials told The Indian Express that the J&K police had advised them not to sell more tickets and keep the tickets limited. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Danish Farooq and Bazie Armand struck for the hosts while Syed Suhail Pasha was the lone scorer for the reigning champions in the second half in Srinagar. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Advisor of J&K Lieutenant Governor, Farooq Khan presented a memento to BJP general secretary Ram Madhav on Thursday. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)