Amid tight security arrangements, thousands of Shia mourners participated in the traditional 8th Muharram procession through the heart of Srinagar on Friday.
This marks the third consecutive year that the Jammu and Kashmir administration has permitted the traditional Muharram procession to pass through the city centre — a route that remained off-limits for over three decades following the outbreak of militancy in the early 1990s.
The mourners, carrying religious banners , began their march early in the morning from Guru Bazar locality. Mourners dressed in black were reciting marsiyas and nohas. The chest-beating mourners eulogized sacrifice of Imam Hussain, grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The procession passed through Jahangir Chowk and Maulana Azad Road, before culminating at Dalgate.
The procession passed peacefully, officials said.
Traffic movement along the route was suspended to facilitate the smooth passage of the procession.
In a display of community service and solidarity, volunteers and senior officials from civil and police departments were seen offering water and assistance to the mourners at various points along the way.
Senior officers of the police and civil administration joined the procession at Lal Chowk as a symbolic gesture of unity and service.
Special Director General of Police, Coordination, SJM Gillani, Inspector general of police, Kashmir, V K Birdi, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri and other senior officers from police and CRPF served water and juice to the mourners.
Hundreds of volunteers from local organisations were present to assist with crowd management, first aid and ensuring orderly movement.
“It’s heartening to see the traditional 8th Muharram procession return peacefully for a third straight year. This route was off-limits for decades,” said Iftikhar Ahmed, a participant. “This change reflects a hopeful shift in policy and mindset.”
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri said this is the third consecutive year the 8th Muharram procession was allowed on its traditional route.
"The district administration had made all necessary arrangements for the mourners, while the police ensured safety,” he said.
Water sprinkler systems were also deployed at several locations to help cool down participants amid rising temperatures.
In Kashmir, two major Muharram processions are traditionally held — on the 8th and 10th of Muharram. The 10th Muharram procession, which passes through Shia-dominated areas, has been regularly permitted.