Budgam, June 27: Thousands of mourners from various parts of the Kashmir Valley participated in the 11th Muharram (Ashoora) procession at Magam on Saturday, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The main Zuljana Sharief procession commenced from Imambara Magam and culminated at the Main Chowk in the late evening. Men, women, children, and elderly devotees took part in the solemn procession, paying tribute to the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala.
Residents of Magam displayed remarkable hospitality by setting up sabeels along the procession route, offering drinking water, juice, fruits, tea, and food free of cost to the mourners. Several families also opened their homes to provide refreshments and welcome participants.
The district administration and Jammu and Kashmir Police established facilitation stalls at Magam main town , where lemon water, juice, and other essential refreshments were distributed throughout the day to ensure the comfort of the participants.
Speaking to reporters, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, said the administration had made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the smooth, peaceful, and hassle-free conduct of Muharram processions across the district.
“Processions were held at various locations across Budgam district, and all necessary arrangements, including security, traffic regulation, healthcare services, and civic amenities, were put in place for the convenience of the mourners,” he said.
The Deputy Commissioner said preparations for the Muharram observances had begun nearly two months in advance. He said all concerned departments were directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply, functional street lighting, road repairs and macadamisation, sanitation, and adequate healthcare facilities along the procession routes.
“Officials and employees from the civil administration and the police remained deployed on the ground throughout the processions to provide assistance and ensure that mourners did not face any inconvenience. The peaceful conclusion of the processions reflects the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders,” he added.
Athar Aamir further said that elaborate security and traffic management plans were implemented to facilitate the peaceful observance of the 11th Muharram processions across the district.
The Deputy Commissioner and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) also joined officials in serving water and refreshments to mourners at various points along the procession route.
Expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, government departments, volunteers, and members of the local community, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated their active cooperation in ensuring the smooth, orderly, and peaceful conduct of the 11th Muharram observances across Budgam district.
