Kashmir observes Ashura with solemnity and reverence

SRINAGAR — Ashura was observed with solemnity and reverence across the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday. Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and his 72 companions for their supreme sacrifice.

Processions and rallies were held in various parts of the region, including Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Baramulla, and Anantnag. Thousands of mourners, including men, women, and children, participated in the processions, beating their chests and reciting elegies to pay tribute to Imam Hussein and the martyrs of Karbala.

Thousands of mourners participated in the Alam and Zuljanah processions carried out from Alipur, Bota Kadal area of the city that culminated at the Imambargah Zadibal in the late hours of Wednesday. The entire stretch was crammed with mourners waving Islamic flags.

While the Zuljinah procession is taken out only on ‘Ashura’, the Alam and Tazia processions are taken out regularly from the first day of Muharram, which also marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.

Security was tightened in sensitive areas to ensure peaceful observance of the occasion.

Amid the heat, the devotees marched through the streets, carrying banners, flags, and replicas of the shrine of Imam Hussein. The procession culminated at the Imam Bargahs, where religious leaders addressed the gatherings and highlighted the significance of Ashura.

Several religious and political leaders participated in the processions.

Several volunteer groups had set up camps along the route of the procession where beverages were being served to the mourners.

The observance of Ashura in Kashmir has a unique cultural significance, reflecting the region’s rich religious heritage and traditions. The occasion was marked with religious fervour, and the people of Kashmir paid their respects to the martyrs of Karbala.

No untoward incidents were reported from any part of the Valley, and the observance of Ashura passed off peacefully.