In a tribute to faith and history, tens of thousands of mourners participated in the 8th day Muharram procession in Srinagar on Friday. The emotionally charged event, which passed through the heart of the city, marked the third consecutive year that the traditional Guru Bazar–Dalgate route was reopened for the commemorative march.
The mourners, dressed in black and chanting elegies for Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions martyred at Karbala, began their journey from Guru Bazar where they assembled. Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari led the procession.
Mourners passed through Jehangir Chowk and Maulana Azad Road before reaching Dalgate, where the procession culminated peacefully.
Mujtaba Ali, a mourner participating in the procession, called it an emotional experience. “It is deeply moving to be part of the 8th Muharram procession,” he said. “This is the third year that this route has been reopened, and to walk these streets with fellow mourners is overwhelming. It’s not just a procession—it’s our shared history and sorrow.”
Another participant, Mohsin Ali, reflected on the historic nature of the event. “This is a legacy procession. I feel fortunate to be part of it,” he said. “Since the ban was lifted, this procession has taken center stage in Muharram observances. People come not just from Srinagar, but also from towns and villages across the Valley. In terms of numbers, I feel this might now even surpass the Ashura procession.”
Along the route, volunteers had set up Mowakibs where refreshments were being served to mourners. Mobile sprinklers, some showering rose water, were used across the stretch to cool the air. At Dalgate some volunteers were even seen offering foot washing and foot massage to fatigued participants.
“Serving the mourners of Imam Hussain (AS) is of great importance in our faith,” said one volunteer offering the unique services. “That is why we feel privileged washing the feet of tired mourners. It is our way of honoring their devotion.”
Security arrangements were tight, with senior police and civil officials including Special DGP (Coordination) SJM Gillani, IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi, and Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri stationed at Lal Chowk. The officials personally joined in the commemorations, offering water to the mourners in a symbolic act of solidarity amid the hot July weather.
Speaking to reporters, IGP V.K. Birdi assured the public of the comprehensive arrangements in place. “The 8th Muharram procession is moving through the core of the city, so we ensured all traffic and security measures were in place for both mourners and commuters,” he said. “We’re also preparing for Ashura with the same level of commitment.”
Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri praised the discipline and devotion of the participants. “This is the third year the procession has been permitted on its traditional route, and the administration has taken every step to ensure safety and peace. I commend the mourners for their cooperation and respectful observance,” he stated.
To facilitate a smooth procession, the Traffic Police issued advance advisories and route diversions.
The 8th of Muharram marks a pivotal point in the mourning cycle for Shia Muslims as they reflect on the lead-up to the Battle of Karbala and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS). For over three decades from 1989 this city procession was banned amid fears it could trigger political tensions. However, since its reinstatement, it has regained its stature as a cornerstone of Kashmir’s Muharram observances.
The peaceful and emotionally resonant gathering on Friday reflected not only religious devotion but also a renewed sense of collective identity. With larger turnouts each year, the 8th Muharram procession has become a powerful symbol of spiritual resilience in the heart of Srinagar.
As the Valley now turns towards preparations for Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, authorities and community leaders alike hope the same atmosphere of unity, discipline, and reverence will continue.
