Srinagar, June 26: Thousands of Shia mourners on Friday participated in the traditional Youm-e-Ashura procession in Srinagar, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala.
The Shia mourners were carrying religious banners, raising religious slogans, and participating in mourning rituals as it passed through the old city amid elaborate security and administrative arrangements.
The largest Ashoora procession in Kashmir began from Lal Bazar in Srinagar and concluded at Zadibal after passing through designated routes. The Shia mourners were reciting elegies in remembrance of Imam Hussain (AS's) sacrifice.
Participants said the message of Karbala continues to inspire people.
"Imam Hussain's sacrifice was not merely for a community but for the universal values of justice, dignity and resistance against oppression. Karbala teaches people to stand with the oppressed regardless of circumstances," a mourner said.
"The teachings of Imam Hussain transcend sectarian boundaries. His sacrifice is a timeless lesson on courage, faith and unwavering commitment to truth," another participant said.
The volunteers distributed water and refreshments to mourners along the procession route, symbolising the spirit of service associated with the remembrance of Karbala.
"Karbala is not just a historical event but an enduring mission. It reminds every generation to uphold justice, compassion and humanity in the face of tyranny," said a woman volunteer serving water to participants.
Speakers at various gatherings recalled that even after the Battle of Karbala, Imam Hussain's supreme sacrifice continues to serve as a beacon of courage and a symbol of the eternal struggle between truth and falsehood.
The mourners said the observance of Ashoora renews the commitment to the ideals of sacrifice, righteousness and service to humanity.
Stringent security measures were in place to ensure peaceful Ashoora procession. Personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force and other security agencies were deployed across the routes, while drone surveillance and CCTV cameras monitored the event.
The DGP was himself monitoring the situation.
Inspector General of Police, Kashmir V K Birdi expressed gratitude to the public for their strong cooperation during Muharram processions.
“Public, organisers and volunteers, followed guidelines and helped maintain order. The coordinated efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other departments ensured the successful management of the procession,” he said.
Youm-e-Ashoora , observed on the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS), his family members and companions in the Battle of Karbala.
The day is marked by mourning processions, majalis (religious congregations) and sabeels, where water and refreshments are distributed in remembrance of the hardships endured by Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions.