Kashmiri Muslims extend warm welcome to Amarnath pilgrims

[Fatima]

The warm reception of Amarnath pilgrims by Kashmiri Muslims showcases the region's enduring legacy of interfaith harmony and communal unity. The 38-day pilgrimage, which began on July 3, 2025, saw locals lining the route to greet the yatris, offering them drinking water, snacks, and flower petals. This display of hospitality underscores the spirit of unity and shared culture that characterizes the region.

Key Highlights of the Warm Welcome

[1] Traditional Kashmiri Hospitality : Locals offered pilgrims kehwa, a signature saffron tea, and dried fruits, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
[2] Community Participation : Youth, students, and civil society volunteers gathered to distribute essentials and offer support to the pilgrims.
[3] Floral Welcome : Pilgrims were showered with flower petals and welcomed with traditional Izbandh, a Kashmiri incense used to ward off evil.
[4] Economic Benefits : The Amarnath Yatra generates employment for thousands of locals, boosting the regional economy through tourism-related activities.

Quotes from Locals and Pilgrims:

(a) We've always welcomed guests with open hearts, said Ghulam Ahmad, emphasizing the importance of hospitality in their culture.
(b) Our visitors are our priority, said Imtiyaz Ahmad, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being.
(c) We had heard of Kashmir's beauty, but we are truly moved by the warmth of its people," said Neelam Sharma, a first-time pilgrim from Delhi