Srinagar, June 5: As Eid al-Adha draws near, the streets of Srinagar and towns across Kashmir have come alive with joy, hope, and a sense of unity that only this sacred festival can bring. From bustling marketplaces to makeshift animal bazaars, there’s a heartbeat in the air — one that pulses with celebration, tradition, and deep-rooted faith.
Despite earlier concerns of low turnout, Kashmiris have poured into the streets with gleaming eyes and warm smiles, preparing to celebrate Bakr Eid on June 7. Families walk hand-in-hand, children’s laughter ringing through the lanes, and shopkeepers greet customers with eager energy. It’s a scene of resilience — a people choosing celebration despite challenges, choosing joy over worry.
Everywhere you look, there’s activity. Bakeries are filled with the smell of fresh treats, hosiery shops are stacked with colorful clothes, and poultry stalls are doing brisk business. But the soul of Eid preparations lies in the sacrificial animal markets. At Eidgah grounds — the city’s largest animal market — sheep, goats, and even camels await their sacred purpose. While many animals are reasonably priced, it’s the well-bred ones that draw more attention, commanding higher prices but symbolizing devotion and pride.
This act of sacrifice commemorates the unwavering faith of Prophet Abraham, who, in an ultimate act of submission to Allah, was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail. But God, in His mercy, replaced Ismail with a ram — a moment that Muslims around the world honor on this day.
In Kashmir, the celebration is not just about ritual — it’s emotional. It’s about coming together, about remembering blessings amidst hardship, and about spreading love in every home and corner. Parents take their children shopping for toys and clothes, often forgetting financial strain, simply to see their little ones smile.
Traffic jams and packed pedestrian zones don’t irritate anyone much. Even traffic police, usually stern, have relaxed a bit, allowing the spirit of Eid to flow. Motorists and roadside sellers jostle for space, but there’s an unspoken understanding — it’s Eid.
Having endured decades of pain and political turmoil, Kashmir is slowly reclaiming its moments of peace. From Eid to Shivratri, Gurupurab to Christmas, and Buddha Purnima — every festival is now an act of healing, a chapter of hope.
This Eid, Kashmir isn’t just shopping — it’s smiling, healing, and celebrating the power of faith and togetherness.
