Historic 8th Muharram Procession Reverberates Through Srinagar After 32 Years

Srinagar, July 27

In a momentous event that left the central Kashmir’s Srinagar city awash with emotions, the 8th Muharram procession took place on Thursday morning through the traditional routes after an interval of 32 years.

According to the Kashmir News Service (KNS), Correspondent, thousands of mourners, clad in black, gathered to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a.s.) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala.

The administration’s decision to permit the procession from 6 am to 8 am was received with immense joy and reverence by the Shia community. The route, starting from Guru Bazar, passing through Budshah Kadal and M.A Road, and culminating at Dalgate, he said, witnessed a sea of mourners expressing their devotion and paying tribute to the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (a.s.).

Started from Guru Bazar, the participants demonstrated exemplary discipline and decorum.

An eye witness said that the mourners upheld the conditions set by the administration, refraining from any anti-national or provocative activities and ensuring no obstruction of traffic flow.

“As the procession made its way through the historic city, prayers and elegies resonated through the air, reminding onlookers of the significance of this day in Islamic history,” he said.

“The solemnity of the occasion was palpable as men, women, and children walked together, paying their respects to Imam Hussain (a.s.), a revered figure in the Islamic faith,” said another participant.

Mayor Srinagar, Junaid Azim Mattu was also participating in the historic 8th Muharram procession.

Meanwhile. the Shia clerics, scholars, and community leaders led the procession, emphasizing the message of peace, love, and unity.

Chairman of Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian Darul Mustafa, Aga Syed Mujatba, expressed his gratitude to the administration for granting permission and reiterated the commitment of the community to abide by the law and promote harmony.

President of J&K Shia Association, Imran Raza Ansari, hailed the occasion as a historic milestone, urging the participants to carry Imam Hussain’s (a.s.) timeless message of sacrifice to the world.

He highlighted that the procession was a symbol of unity and faith, uniting people from all walks of life.

The administration’s careful timing of the procession, in the early morning hours, ensured minimal disruption to the public, allowing businesses, schools, and offices to function smoothly throughout the day.

Meanwhile, Additional  director General of Police (ADGP) for Kashmir, Vijay Kumar, made a timely visit to assess the procession route.

During his candid and reassuring interaction with the media, he stated that robust three-tier security arrangements were in place to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the event.

Notably, today, the 8th Muharram procession happened in Srinagar after 32 years, following its traditional route. This was a big deal for the Shia community, honoring Imam Hussain’s sacrifice.

The event also showed how religious harmony and cultural heritage are vital, promoting coexistence and mutual respect in our diverse society.

The procession reached Lal Chowk, the heart of the city, at the time of filing this report.