Despite recent threats and the lingering shadow of terrorism, Kashmiri Pandits organised a grand Janmashtami Shobha Yatra through the streets of Srinagar, sending a strong message of communal harmony and peaceful coexistence. The colourful procession, featuring tableaux of Lord Krishna and Radha, began at the historic Katleshwar Temple and passed through Habba Kadal, Barbarshah and Regal Lane before culminating at the iconic Lal Chowk.
“We have been taking out this procession continuously since 2007. Because we received a threat letter two weeks ago, this year is a little special.
There is perhaps no better example of brotherhood,” he said. Kashmiri Pandits who travelled from different parts of the country joined local participants, including men, women and children, for the nearly three-kilometre procession. One of the most striking features of the event was the participation of members of the Muslim community. “We want to tell those spreading terrorism that Kashmir wants freedom from terrorism. All Kashmiris Pandits, Muslims and Christians want to live freely and happily together,” he added. But despite that, people from every community Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs participated. As you can see, our Muslim brothers are standing right next to us.
