The Kashmiri Pandit community in Srinagar marked a historic milestone by organizing a rath yatra for Ganesh Chaturthi, the first such procession in the Valley since the onset of militancy 35 years ago. The vibrant procession commenced from the Ganpatyar temple in the Habba Kadal area, culminating in the traditional Ganpati visarjan in the Jhelum River.

The five-day festival, which concluded on Sunday, was celebrated with profound devotion and festive spirit, symbolizing a significant moment of cultural resurgence for the community.

Sanjay Tickoo, a prominent Kashmiri Pandit activist, described the event as a landmark achievement, noting, “A rath yatra was taken out from Ganpatyar temple and Ganesh ji was immersed in the Jhelum.” He emphasized that this was the first rath yatra since militancy disrupted the region, highlighting the community’s efforts to revive traditions.

The Kashmiri Pandits have been organizing Ganpati visarjan in the Valley for the past three years, reflecting a gradual restoration of cultural practices amidst a challenging socio-political landscape.

The procession carried prayers for unity and protection from natural disasters, with Tickoo stating, “We prayed that natural disasters stop and all people, irrespective of caste, creed or religion, live together with love.” The event underscores the community’s resilience and commitment to fostering harmony, drawing participation from across Srinagar.

This historic rath yatra not only celebrates Lord Ganesha but also marks a hopeful step toward cultural and communal reconciliation in the Valley.

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