Examiner News Desk | Srinagar:
Thousands of Shia mourners on Wednesday participated in the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar, which was taken out along its historic route after authorities granted permission, continuing a practice revived in 2023 following a ban that lasted more than three decades.
The procession commenced from Guru Bazar and moved through Budshah Kadal and M.A. Road before proceeding towards Dalgate. Throughout the procession, mourners recited elegies and nohas in remembrance of Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala, while groups of devotees performed traditional matam.
Men, women and children participated in large numbers, with devotees travelling from different parts of the Kashmir Valley to join the annual religious observance.
“We had waited for years to see this procession return to its traditional route. Participating in it is not only a matter of faith but also an emotional connection with our history and heritage,” said a mourner from Srinagar.
Another participant said the large turnout reflected the community’s deep devotion and enduring attachment to the legacy of Karbala.
“This procession carries a powerful message of sacrifice, truth and resistance against oppression. We are grateful to be able to observe it peacefully on its historic route,” he said.
The 8th Muharram procession had remained banned for over three decades before authorities allowed its return along the traditional route in 2023. Since then, the annual procession has witnessed the participation of thousands of mourners each year.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the event, the administration put in place elaborate security, traffic and medical arrangements. Senior officials remained deployed along the route, while volunteers assisted mourners and helped regulate the movement of the procession.
At the time of filing this report, the procession was continuing towards Dalgate, where it was expected to conclude later in the day.
