Srinagar, June 24: Thousands of Shia mourners on Wednesday participated in the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar, which was taken out on its historic route after authorities granted permission, continuing a practice revived in 2023 after a ban of more than three decades.
The procession commenced from Guru Bazar and proceeded through Budshah Kadal and M.A. Road towards Dalgate. As the procession moved through the city, 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 joined the procession in large numbers, with participants travelling from different parts of the Valley to take part in 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 devotion and attachment to the legacy of Karbala. “This procession carries a powerful message of sacrifice, truth and resistance against oppression. We are grateful that we can observe it peacefully on its historic route,” he said.
The 8th Muharram procession was banned for over three decades before being allowed to resume along its traditional route in 2023. Since then, authorities have permitted the procession, drawing participation from thousands of mourners each year.
Elaborate security, traffic and medical arrangements were put in place by the administration to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Officials remained deployed along the route, while volunteers assisted mourners and regulated 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.
