by Jasib Shabir
Every year, as the sacred Amarnath Yatra begins, the air in Kashmir fills with an indescribable spiritual energy. Pilgrims from every corner of India embark on this divine journey, driven by unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. Yet, what leaves the most enduring mark on their hearts is not just the pilgrimage itself, but the warmth, love, and hospitality they receive from the people of Kashmir. In 2025, this bond between the yatris and Kashmiris stands stronger than ever, reaffirming the timeless values of Kashmiriyat, brotherhood, tolerance, and coexistence.
From the moment the yatris enter the Valley, they are embraced not as outsiders but as honored guests. The people of Kashmir open their hearts and homes, offering tea, shelter, and assistance without expecting anything in return. Roadside stalls serve steaming cups of kahwa, locals guide weary pilgrims along treacherous paths, and families invite them into their homes for rest and meals. These acts of kindness are not performative; they stem from a deep-rooted culture of compassion that has defined Kashmir for centuries.
In a world where divisions are often highlighted, the Amarnath Yatra serves as a powerful reminder that humanity transcends religion, region, and politics. The Kashmiris’ generosity is not a calculated gesture but a natural extension of their ethos, one that believes in serving others as an act of faith. Too often, Kashmir is portrayed through a lens of conflict and unrest. But the Amarnath Yatra reveals a different reality, a land where peace and harmony still thrive in the hearts of its people. Despite decades of turmoil, the spirit of Kashmiriyat remains unbroken. The yatris, many of whom may have arrived with preconceived notions shaped by media narratives, leave with a transformed perspective. They witness firsthand that Kashmir is not just a territory of disputes but a home to people who cherish love over hatred, unity over division.
This year, as in every year, the Valley sends a clear message: “You are welcome here.” Each smile exchanged, each hand extended in help, and each shared meal is a testament to Kashmir’s enduring legacy of brotherhood. The pilgrims, often moved to tears by the locals’ kindness, carry back stories not just of a holy cave, but of the human connections that made their journey unforgettable.
Kashmiriyat is not a relic of the past; it is a living, breathing philosophy that continues to shape daily life in the Valley. It is the shopkeeper who refuses payment from a tired yatri, the elderly man who offers his blanket on a cold night, and the children who greet pilgrims with innocent curiosity and warmth. These small yet profound gestures embody the essence of Kashmir, a land where humanity prevails despite the challenges.
The Amarnath Yatra is more than a religious expedition; it is a bridge between cultures, a celebration of shared values. The pilgrims and the locals may speak different languages, follow different faiths, and come from different backgrounds, but in these moments, they are united by something greater, the recognition of each other’s humanity.
In an era where polarization dominates discourse, the Amarnath Yatra stands as a beacon of hope. It proves that even in the most contested spaces, love and harmony can flourish. The people of Kashmir, through their actions, challenge the stereotypes forced upon them. They demonstrate that this land is not defined by conflict but by its people’s resilience, kindness, and unwavering belief in coexistence.
To the yatris, Kashmir becomes more than just a pilgrimage site, it becomes a second home. And to the world, the Valley sends a powerful reminder: peace exists here, love exists here, humanity exists here.
As the chants of “Bam Bam Bhole” echo through the mountains and the yatris continue their sacred journey, they do so with the assurance that they are not alone. Kashmir walks with them, not just as a silent spectator, but as a loving companion. And in this beautiful exchange of faith and friendship, the true spirit of India shines brightest.
Jasib Shabir is a social activist advocating for youth empowerment and education rights in south Kashmir.
