Srinagar’s historic Raghunath Temple in Habba Kadal celebrated Ram Navami after a 36-year absence, marking the emotional return of Kashmiri Pandit traditions.
The century-old temple hosted a grand pooja despite ongoing renovations. Devotees from Jammu joined local Kashmiri Pandits chanting Rama Nama in the valley’s sacred space.
Local Muslims participated in welcoming the Pandit celebrations. “We are brothers who lived together for decades. We want them to return soon,” said resident Ali Mohammad.
Ram Navami was a major festival drawing regional Pandits before the exodus. Temple committee’s restoration efforts culminate in the first pooja since the militancy era.
Special Havan marked reopening reinforcing communal harmony. Tourists and security forces joined the small Hindu population, strengthening the Valley’s pluralistic heritage.
