The attack in Baisaran valley of Pahalgam, where at least 25 innocent tourists and a local Kashmiri man lost their lives, has shaken the nation’s conscience. This senseless act of violence—targeting those who came seeking Kashmir’s beauty and hospitality—was not only an attack on people but on peace, hope, and our fragile progress towards normalcy. Yet, even in this moment of grief, one truth remains unwavering: Kashmir will rise again. Tourism in Kashmir has long been more than just an economic activity—it is a symbol of normalcy, unity, and resilience. The verdant meadows, snow-capped peaks, and the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality have for decades drawn visitors from across the globe. Despite facing decades of turbulence, we have always bounced back, our people standing strong, defying the shadows of violence with the light of perseverance. What makes Kashmir unique is not only its natural beauty but the spirit of its people. The local man who died alongside the tourists in Pahalgam was not a bystander; he was a symbol of the bond between Kashmiris and the rest of India. He was likely someone who welcomed tourists with a smile, served them kehwa, and offered them stories of the Valley’s cultural richness. He died while trying to save the visitors. He stood up for what is right. His death is a stark reminder that terror strikes indiscriminately and that Kashmiris, too, are victims of the forces that seek to divide and destroy. History has shown that terror cannot break the backbone of Kashmir’s tourism. After every dark chapter, the Valley has witnessed a return of hope. The houseboats float again, the shikaras glide gently on Dal Lake, and the scent of saffron and apples once more fills the air. Last year, Kashmir recorded its highest-ever footfall of tourists—an encouraging sign that the rest of India and the world continue to believe in the Valley’s potential and its people’s promise. Yes, the attack in Pahalgam is a tragedy we must never forget. It calls for strong security measures, justice for the victims, and unwavering support to the grieving families. But it must not be allowed to define Kashmir’s future. Kashmir will rise not because it is untouched by pain, but because it refuses to be defined by it. Tourism will thrive again, not because threats have vanished, but because love, hospitality, and hope run deeper than fear. The Valley mourns today—but it will heal, and it will bloom again.