Srinagar: Tahir Baig Commonly Known as Tahir Hashmee– a name that needs no introduction in Kashmir. Born & brought up in Nowpora Bandipora of Northern Kashmir, Tahir has been the face of football from the valley from past years now. Tahir started Football at the tender age of nine. Tahir's versatility both Midfielder and as a Striker brought him plaudits from all over the footballing circles. His story is highly inspirational for the youth, and he has brought laurels particularly to Bandipora District.
Tahir is known for his Football skills across the J&K, has shown his talent across the boundaries. He was selected for Brazil as part of cultural sports interchange programme & for advanced training course where he spent months & returned as a trained coach. In Brazil, Tahir attended one of the most important football course in the world given by SITREFESP, (Syndicate of professionals football trainers of Sao Paulo – Brazil) course which capacitated him with an official certificate to train football at professional level.
Tahir Played & Represented J&K State(then) many times at National level. He is running Football Academy in Bandipora as well and is brushing up the skills of young players of Bandipora district and is gearing them up for future crunches. This academy does not only train boys, it also has special pieces of training for girls too. Tahir said that, We will train them here and if they improve their skills, we will help them get absorbed in professional clubs outside the state.
In J&K, Tahir represented many top and leading Football clubs. He was offered by Many leading clubs like JK Bank, JK PDC, AG's office,JK Forest to play for them, however he denied. Despite getting many offers from leading Clubs of J&K, Tahir make his mind to serve football and footballers of Bandipora. Eminent Footballer and B-Licenced Coach Muzamil Ahmad said that Tahir Sacrificed his carrier for Bandipora football adding that he is an inspiration for all of us, wherever you are from you can not stop loving this Person. Azhar Lone, another Ace Footballer from Bandipora who played I-League said that Tahir is the reason behind the ultimate talent of Bandipora added that he revolutionized the football of Bandipora.
In his academy Hundrends of Players are getting benefited by his experience. Tahir is great ball dribbler, skilled player, good goal-getter. His great goals at crucial moments in or outside are still remembered. Under his guidance and training hundreds of youth of the Bandipora would surely find their dreams appearing in true Colours. His approachability and helpful attitude towards the entire Football Community is praiseworthy, said a local.
Many fans of the game have appreciated and applauded Tahir's talent and predicted that he will go down as one of the top players in our J&K. Tahir's love for football started at quite a young age and since childhood, he worked hard towards it. While growing up, he always dreamt of playing professional football and showed his skills on multiple platforms. His hardwork and dedication for the sport eventually made his dreams come true and now he is living his dream as a professional footballer. The life of this young footballer has truly been an inspiration for many and his journey to success has inspired so many.
Tahir said that, "The biggest inspiration in life is my family. They have always supported me from the beginning, they have done every possible thing to help me do well. I am very blessed and thankful to have them in my life.