Karachi is often described as the city that never sleeps, but its nights become even more vibrant during the holy month of Ramadan, with sports and community activities continuing into the early hours of the morning.
One such celebration of sport unfolded at Ziauddin Park, where a two-day Ramadan RAKA Volleyball Festival brought together more than 40 amateur teams in a lively competition that combined sport with the city’s festive spirit.
According to event organizer Amina Rashid Khan, the RAKA Volleyball Tournament began as a small gathering among friends with only six teams. Over time, it steadily expanded into a much larger event, now attracting dozens of teams from across the city.
“The idea was not just to compete but to create a space where people could come together, enjoy the game and spend time in a positive environment,” Amina said. “That’s why the atmosphere here feels more like a festival than a simple tournament.”
More than 40 teams consisting of male and female participants of different age groups participated in the competition. The event was strictly an amateur tournament, and no professional players were allowed to participate, ensuring a level playing field for community level athletes.
To maintain competitive balance, teams were divided into three categories based on skill level: Chillers, Thrillers and Killers.
The Chillers division featured relatively less experienced players, while the Thrillers division included intermediate-level teams. The top-level Killers category was made up of the most skilled participants.
Murtaza Lakda’s team won in the Chillers category, while Hatim Aftab’s team won the title in the Thrillers category.
In the main Killers category, Ali Rehman’s team emerged victorious after a series of close matches.
Speaking to PakGazette News, Ali Rehman said that the competition in the first division was particularly intense because several strong teams were competing for the title.
“This time the games were very tough,” he said. “Winning the title is a great feeling, but being part of such a wonderful tournament is even more special.”
Participants said they thoroughly enjoyed the event, noting that sporting activities in Karachi during Ramadan go beyond cricket, with volleyball and other games also attracting enthusiastic crowds.
They added that tournaments like the RAKA festival help provide emerging players with opportunities to showcase their talent.
The atmosphere at Ziauddin Park resembled a community fair during the tournament, attracting families and children who gathered to watch the games and cheer on their favorite teams.
Among them was spectator Ahmed Shahbazkar, 13, who said the event inspired younger players to take an interest in volleyball.
“Volleyball is not just for adults,” he said. “Kids can play too. Seeing young players compete here with others has really encouraged me.”
The Ramadan RAKA Volleyball Festival highlighted how sport in Karachi is more than just winning or losing; It is part of the rhythm of the city, uniting communities and offering young athletes their first steps towards the future.
