Ulfat Jaan
Srinagar July : 03 No matter what religion or community you belong to, Kashmiriyat rises above such divisions. When it comes to Kashmiriyat, it has always been seen beyond caste, creed, color, religion, or community—whether in times of sorrow or joy, empathy or lending a helping hand, Kashmiriyat has always stood strong and left its mark.
While communalism and division are often discussed across the country, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir stands out as a shining example of brotherhood beyond religion. During festivals or significant occasions of any community, people come together—whether to celebrate or to extend support.
“This bond is unbreakable, no matter how much anyone tries,” said Salam Ahmad, a Srinagar resident. He added, “We have lived here together for decades. It doesn’t matter which community someone belongs to—what matters is that we celebrate every festival, every auspicious occasion, together as Kashmiris.”
He emphasized that in Kashmir, people do not divide themselves along religious lines—whether Shia, Muslim, Hindu, or Sikh, they stand together, sharing love, happiness, and sorrow.
Mudasir, a shopkeeper, said, “Kashmiriyat is beyond words—it’s a feeling that cannot be explained. It’s an emotion deeply ingrained in the hearts of all Kashmiris, whether Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, or any other community.”
He noted that today, during Muharram, every Kashmiri is wholeheartedly supporting their Shia brothers, providing water and other essentials amid the scorching heatwave.
Not only common citizens but also political leaders from diverse backgrounds have come together to assist in Muharram processions in Srinagar, the summer capital. According to Morning Kashmir correspondent, Member of Parliament Syed Aga Ruhullah and former SMC president Junaid Matoo were seen distributing refreshments together.
The story does not end here—across different parts of Srinagar, people from various backgrounds and communities are standing united to ensure the success of the Muharram processions.
Pertinently, the seventh day of Muharram marks when Yazid’s army blocked access to the Euphrates River, cutting off water to Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his small camp.
That day, thirst became more than a physical need—it became a burden, a boundary, an ultimate cruelty. But Kashmir carries that thirst with reverence. It is not just about the absence of water; it is about the presence of choice—the choice to stand firm, even in deprivation, even in sorrow. This is the lesson the valley holds close.
Traffic Advisory for 8th Muharram Procession in Srinagar
Meanwhile, authorities have announced traffic diversions in Srinagar ahead of the 8th Muharram-ul-Haram procession on Friday. The procession will proceed from Guru Bazar to Dalgate via M.A. Road, affecting vehicular movement across several areas.
As per the advisory issued by the office of the Superintendent of Police (Traffic City Srinagar):
Traffic from Karan Nagar to Jehangir Chowk via Shaheed Gunj and Tankipora will remain suspended from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
No traffic will be allowed from Jehangir Chowk towards M.A. Road up to Dalgate and Badyari Chowk from 5:00 AM until the procession concludes.
Vehicles from Batmaloo, the Civil Secretariat, and Rambagh heading towards M.A. Road will be diverted via Residency Road and Hari Singh High Street.
Traffic from Rainawari and Nowpora will be rerouted near Mamta Hotel via SRTC Bridge, Barbarshah, Kralkhud, and Habba Kadal towards Karan Nagar.
Motorists from Nishat, Shalimar, and adjoining areas should use the Boulevard–Gupkar Road–Radio Kashmir route via R.R. Road and Abdullah Bridge.
Vehicles from Pantha Chowk and Sonwar will be diverted at Radio Kashmir towards Residency Road and Abdullah Bridge.
Tourists and locals near Nehru Park are advised to use Nehru Park–Gupkar Road or Fore Shore Road.
The public is urged to avoid unnecessary travel along the Karan Nagar to Dalgate stretch of M.A. Road during the procession.
Parking Arrangements
S.P. College Ground
Gindun Park
Batmaloo Bus Stand
A dedicated Control Room (Room No. 103) has been set up for assistance.
Superintendent of Police (Traffic City Srinagar), Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IPS), issued the advisory, seeking public cooperation and apologizing for any inconvenience caused.
