Raghunath Mandir reopening after 36 years signals return of hope: Altaf Thakur

Hails PM Modi, Amit Shah, LG Sinha; says dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits not far

Srinagar, Mar 25: Senior BJP leader and party spokesperson Altaf Thakur on Wednesday welcomed the reopening of the historic Raghunath Mandir Habba Kadal after a gap of 36 years, describing it as a powerful symbol of peace, reconciliation and the gradual return of normalcy in Kashmir.
The temple, located in the Habba Kadal area of Srinagar, is set to reopen its doors with grand celebrations on the occasion of Ram Navami on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in an event being organised by the Raghunath Mandir Committee.

In his statement, Thakur said the reopening of the temple after more than three decades is not just a religious event, but a historic moment that reflects the changing atmosphere in the Valley.
“This is a deeply emotional and significant occasion. The reopening of Raghunath Mandir sends a strong message of peace, harmony and coexistence,” he said.
He credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for their sustained efforts in restoring peace and normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the committed efforts of Amit Shah and LG Manoj Sinha, the situation in Kashmir has transformed significantly, making such historic developments possible,” Thakur said.
Expressing optimism about the future, the BJP leader said the time is not far when Kashmiri Pandits will return to the Valley with dignity and honour.
“The reopening of temples is a positive development. It reflects a growing sense of security and confidence. I firmly believe that the day is near when our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters will return home with dignity,” he added.
Thakur also extended his greetings to the people on the occasion of Ram Navami and expressed hope that the festival would further strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, peace and communal harmony in the region.
The reopening of the temple, which remained closed for decades due to turmoil, is being seen as a significant step in reviving the Valley’s shared cultural and spiritual heritage.