‘Muslim neighbours took care of temple’; DC Chib hails communal harmony
Bandipora, May 16: Hundreds of displaced Kashmiri Pandits on Saturday returned to the historic Nand Kishore Temple in Sumbal area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district after 37 years to participate in the annual three-day Sumbli Mawas festival.
The festival, observed on the birth anniversary of Nand Kishore Maharaj, drew devotees from different parts of the country who gathered to offer prayers, reconnect with their roots and meet old neighbours and friends.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the temple premises witnessed emotional scenes as several families reunited during the annual gathering, which members of the community described as a symbol of remembrance and communal harmony.
Authorities had made elaborate security and administrative arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festival. Senior police and civil administration officials remained present during the event.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib visited the shrine and participated in special prayers, while Senior Superintendent of Police Bandipora reviewed security arrangements ahead of the celebrations.
Chib appreciated the participation of residents, saying the involvement of the Muslim community reflected Kashmir’s shared traditions and communal harmony. “It is heartening to see the local community actively participating in the event and welcoming the visiting families. Such gatherings strengthen bonds between communities and preserve our collective heritage,” she said.
Many visiting devotees said returning to the Valley after decades was an emotional experience. “We are happy to return to our motherland after so many years. Our Muslim neighbours took care of this temple in our absence, and we will always remain thankful to them,” said Sunil Kaul, a devotee visiting from outside Kashmir.
Another devotee, Ramesh Bhat, said returning to the ancestral village and meeting old neighbours brought back memories of earlier times. “It is the best feeling to return home after decades. Praying at our ancestral temple fills our hearts with emotion,” he said.
Ashok Kumar, another participant in the festival, said the annual gathering helped the displaced community maintain its connection with Kashmir. “No matter where we live, our roots are here. Coming back every year keeps our traditions and memories alive,” he said.
Locals welcomed the visiting families and assisted in arrangements for the festival. “Pandits are part of our family. Their return reconnects us with our shared traditions and old memories,” said Rather Mehraj, a Sumbal resident.
Community members said the annual festival had now become a symbol of reconciliation and hope for renewed communal harmony in Kashmir. (KNO)
