Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, June 26

Tens of thousands of Shia Muslims participated in Ashura processions across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain with large gatherings, religious sermons, and traditional mourning rituals that concluded peacefully under extensive security arrangements.

Ashura, observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, marks the death of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

The day is regarded by Shia Muslims as a symbol of sacrifice, justice, and resistance against oppression.

The largest procession in Srinagar began early in the morning from Bota Kadal in the old city and passed through traditional routes before culminating at the historic Imambara at Zadibal, where thousands of mourners assembled for prayers and sermons.

Clad in black, participants recited elegies and nohas, carried alams (religious standards) and replicas of Zuljanah, the horse associated with Imam Hussain, while clerics addressed gatherings on the moral and spiritual lessons of Karbala.

Religious leaders urged followers to uphold the values of truth, justice, and compassion, saying Imam Hussain’s sacrifice continued to inspire people across religious and cultural boundaries.

Large processions and mourning assemblies were also held across Budgam, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, Anantnag, Kulgam, and other districts, reflecting the widespread observance of Ashura throughout the Valley.

In Budgam district, thousands joined processions from Gazi Manzil to Yousufabad in Magam and Sonpah, while significant gatherings were reported from Hanjiveera, Dab Wakora, Pattan, and Baramulla in north Kashmir. Similar observances took place in Achabal, Tral, Pahalgam, Devsar, and several other areas of south Kashmir.

Sunni Muslims also marked the occasion by holding religious congregations in mosques across Kashmir, where clerics reflected on the legacy of Imam Hussain and the universal message of courage, sacrifice, and standing against injustice.

Authorities deployed additional police and paramilitary personnel along major procession routes in Srinagar, including Zadibal, Nowhatta, Khanyar, Lal Chowk, and adjoining areas, while traffic control rooms and public assistance centres were established to facilitate the movement of mourners.

Officials said security forces had been instructed to facilitate the religious observances while maintaining public order, with volunteers from local organisations assisting police in crowd management and providing drinking water, refreshments, and first aid through temporary service camps along the routes.

The peaceful observance marks the third consecutive year that traditional Ashura processions have been allowed on designated routes after restrictions imposed for decades because of security concerns were gradually eased by the administration.

Participants said the restoration of the traditional processions held deep emotional significance for the community.

“For decades, this route remained closed. Being able to participate again is a moment of gratitude,” said Syed Murtaza Rizvi, a resident of Srinagar.

Ashura concluded without any major law-and-order incidents, with authorities describing the observance as one of the largest and most peaceful Muharram commemorations held in the Valley in recent years.